Over 38,000 female farmers in North Macedonia, but their rights remain unequal

More than 38,000 women are registered as farmers in North Macedonia, but many of them lack financial security and equal access to maternity leave, health insurance and social protection.

These issues were discussed during the panel “Harvests without her name: Rural women and invisible work,” held at Europe House in Strumica as part of the “Wear the Change” campaign. The campaign was initiated by the Delegation of the European Union and the embassies of member states.

The data presented show that in 2021, only 4.1 percent of women in rural areas were registered as property owners. Across the country, land is owned by only 12 percent of women.

The discussion also examined the reasons for this inequality, including traditions that influence inheritance. Although the law recognizes girls’ right to inherit, many of them give up their share in favor of their brothers, influenced by long-standing customs and the belief that, after marriage, a daughter will “belong to another family.”

The panel highlighted the traditional obstacles that push girls to give up their inheritance. The closing message was that the work and contribution of female farmers must be accompanied by equal rights and opportunities.