Istanbul: Turkish women farmers will have greater representation in agricultural projects under a UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) quota aimed at increasing income-generating opportunities for them. Aysegul Selisik, assistant representative of Trkiye at the FAO, told Anadolu the organization applies a 30% women's quota in all its projects and vocational training programs, with participation often exceeding 60%.

According to Anadolu Agency, ahead of International Women's Day, Selisik highlighted that women are actively involved in agriculture worldwide, making up more than 50% of the agricultural workforce in Trkiye and globally. However, many women working in agriculture are not formally recognized in the labor force, despite family-run businesses ensuring food security by producing '80% of the food the entire world consumes.'

Selisik noted that agriculture became a key sector, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasized women's instrumental role, especially through women-led cooperatives. Despite facing challenges in accessing equal opportunities and formal employment, women have been active in various sectors, including agriculture.

The FAO and Trkiye's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry have been implementing a cooperative support program since 2019, which includes vocational training for agricultural workers. Nearly 1,500 farmers have benefited from these trainings, with more than 50% being women.

The digital platform Hep Yerinden, developed in collaboration with the FAO and the Turkish Agriculture Ministry, allows agricultural workers to market their products. Selisik mentioned the FAO's collaboration with Turkish national bank Isbank to integrate the platform with Pazarama, an e-commerce marketplace, enhancing product accessibility.

This initiative has motivated women cooperative members to increase their production. The FAO also provides personal development, financial literacy, and design training at cooperatives, along with financial support, particularly in regions affected by the February 2023 earthquakes.

Selisik emphasized the significant impact of these initiatives, with many cooperatives taking them as examples. Currently, they are working in Mount Ida, cooperating with the Global Environment Facility, where women have initiated a solidarity movement, with men also participating. Selisik stated the importance of continuing support for women in agriculture, especially in rural areas.