Youth in Agrifood Systems – Challenges, Opportunities and Pathways for Transformation

As part of its ongoing work on generational renewal in agriculture, the European Economic and Social Committee’s Section for Agriculture, Rural Development and the Environment (NAT) will hold a dedicated debate on youth in agrifood systems during its meeting on 28 January 2026 from 16:00 to 17:15 CET.

Young people play a crucial role in driving innovation, sustainability, and resilience across agrifood systems. Yet they continue to face significant barriers – economic, social, structural and institutional – that hinder their full participation and entry into the sector. 

The debate will offer a unique opportunity to:

• discuss concrete ways to empower young people,
• ensure fair and attractive conditions for careers in agriculture, and
• identify ways to strengthen youth engagement and generational renewal in agriculture

Ahead of the debate, Ms Nicoletta Merlo, EESC Member and President of the EESC Youth Group, will present the EESC Youth Group’s ongoing work and perspectives (15:45 – 16:00 CET).

The session will feature a presentation by Mr Marwan Benali, Lead Author of the FAO flagship report The Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems, who will outline the report’s key findings and policy recommendations. Full programme here.

🎬The event will be webstreamed freely on our website. ✅ No registration required.

🔊Interpretation: EN, FR and DE.

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