Policy Insights - Supporting the health and well-being of Europe’s agricultural workforce

Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work has highlighted that occupational safety and health risks in Europe’s agriculture and forestry sector threaten its long-term viability. Members of the European Parliament’s agriculture committee are also aware of healthcare challenges, including both physical and mental health conditions, faced by the people working in the sector. Mental health is a priority for the European Commission and a Communication on a comprehensive approach to mental health is expected to be adopted in June 2023.

The article provides overall considerations on the health and wellbeing of the agricultural workforce based on EU-funded projects that are raising awareness and collecting useful examples of initiatives adopted across EU Member States. The text provides links to gain further information.

The text then focuses on policy synergies and the potential role of CAP Strategic Plans in tackling mental health challenges for farmers and agri-food workers. Useful opportunities can be found in better uptake of social conditionality; cooperation via EIP-AGRI Operational Groups can help identify and share success stories; LEADER and Smart Village initiatives offer further options.