POLITICAL PARTICIPATION; BUILDING SUPPORT FOR INNOVATIONS

Women’s active participation in political debates and decision-making is crucial for addressing the unique challenges faced in rural and agricultural settings. FLIARA innovators from Germany demonstrate a strong commitment to improving sectoral conditions, often with a particular emphasis on rural women’s rights and gender equality. Recognising the political relevance of their innovations, several innovators became actively engaged in political processes, acquiring skills in advocacy and policy engagement. 

Inspiring Examples

• A self-employed carpenter campaigned at the federal level for statutory maternity leave for the self-employed, building an alliance of sectoral professional groups. 
• A dairy farmer formed a producer’s association on cow-bound calf-rearing and contributed legislative input at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.
• One innovator invited local decision-makers from different political parties to her project, while another engaged the mayor for a promotional video. 
• As part of the German rural women’s network, one policy officer led a successful program supporting women in rural areas to enter local politics.
• Another organic farmer leveraged her broad social media network to connect government and citizens on agricultural policy. 

Practical Recommendations

• Identify relevant local and regional stakeholders for your innovation.
• Seek training and coaching on political education and advocacy through NGOs, political foundations, or government agencies. 
• Connect with civil society organisations active in your area of interest or form new alliances with like-minded individuals.