Family farming

At least 90 percent of the world’s farms are family farms according to the most commonly used definitions. Family farms represent the dominant form of agriculture in most countries. They range in size from tiny, subsistence holdings to large-scale, commercial enterprises, and they produce a vast range of food and cash crops in all kinds of agro-ecological conditions. However, the enormous heterogeneity of family farms means that general policy prescriptions are unlikely to be relevant for the whole category. It is necessary to look at the different characteristics of farms within the broad category of family farming. This chapter briefly reviews the state of family farming in the world, focusing on smaller family farms.

Sustainable Development Goals:

No Poverty

Responsible Consumption and Production

Decent Work and Economic Growth