In the heart of Europe, Zalán Márk Maró, an agricultural economist at Corvinus University of Budapest, has been delving into the complexities of the agri-food sector, a critical industry that feeds the world and employs millions. His recent study, published in the journal ‘Sustainable Futures’ (translated from Hungarian as ‘Fenntartható Jövők’), sheds light on the employment challenges and potential solutions within this vital sector in developed countries.
The agri-food sector is a behemoth, but it’s not without its struggles. Climate change, demographic shifts, technological advancements, and evolving consumption patterns are just a few of the challenges it faces. Add to that the recent global disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian-Russian conflict, and you’ve got a sector that’s facing more uncertainty than ever. These issues have significantly impacted agri-food supply chains and employment, pushing Maró to explore the dynamics at play.
Maró’s systematic literature review, which synthesized findings from 128 studies, highlights several key themes. One of the most striking is the continued importance of family farms. Despite the pressures of industrial-scale agriculture, family farms remain a backbone of the sector. “Family farms are not just a relic of the past,” Maró explains. “They play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, preserving rural landscapes, and supporting local economies.”
However, these farms often face significant challenges, including labor shortages and the need to adapt to new technologies. This is where education and training come in. Maró’s review underscores the importance of investing in the next generation of agricultural education to address these issues and foster innovation.
Another critical area Maró’s research touches on is the reliance on migrant and seasonal labor. These workers often face precarious conditions, including low wages and limited legal protections. Maró advocates for prioritizing fair wages and legal protections for these workers, not just for ethical reasons, but also for the sector’s long-term sustainability. “A stable and fairly treated workforce is essential for a resilient and sustainable food system,” he argues.
The study also delves into gender inequalities and wage disparities within the sector. Addressing these issues is not just a matter of fairness, but also of economic efficiency. Closing these gaps can lead to a more productive and innovative workforce, benefiting the sector as a whole.
So, what does all this mean for the future of the agri-food sector? Maró’s research provides a roadmap for policymakers and industry leaders. It calls for a multi-pronged approach that includes supporting family farms, investing in education and training, and ensuring fair treatment of all workers. By doing so, the sector can future-proof its workforce, safeguard rural livelihoods, and secure resilient, sustainable food systems.
The implications of Maró’s findings extend beyond the agri-food sector. They offer valuable insights for other industries grappling with similar challenges, such as labor shortages, technological changes, and the need for sustainability. As we look to the future, Maró’s work serves as a reminder that addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach that considers the needs of workers, the environment, and the economy.