EU Statement - HRC60 - Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the rights of peasants and other people working in rural areas

EU Statement - HRC60 - Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the rights of peasants and other people working in rural areas

United Nations Human Rights Council

60^th session

Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the rights of peasants and other people working in rural areas

17 September 2025

EU statement

Mr President,

The EU welcomes the report of the working group [addressing global trends and challenges affecting peasants].

Rural areas are essential contributors to the overall prosperity and economic strength, as well as to the green and digital transitions, as they assume a pivotal role in matters such as food production, environmental preservation, climate action and the fostering of cultural heritage. Yet social and economic developments of the past decades, including climate change, globalisation and urbanisation, have left their mark also on rural areas, which are affected by aging populations, a lack of adequate employment opportunities, as well as limited connectivity, infrastructure, or access to health services - sometimes even malnutrition and food insecurity.

Women represent a significant driving force for prosperity and social inclusion in rural areas, however they are facing additional challenges and are in need of supporting measures to ensure they have equal tenure rights and access to use and management of land and natural resources, better integrate into the official labour market, utilise opportunities for learning, employment and innovation, as well as participate in decision making. In this context, the EU strives for the inclusion of gender equality as a policy element in promoting the equal participation of women in farming and the socio-economic development of rural areas.

The EU's external action aims to promote the rights of rural workers by incorporating human rights principles into relevant policies. The EU funds work to combat exploitative practices, address poverty, and improve livelihoods in rural areas, emphasising the decent working conditions and fundamental freedoms of rural workers globally.

Thank you.