A compelling exhibition illuminating the often-overlooked contributions of women in Slovenia’s rural communities has opened at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Food, showcasing their innovative spirit and vital role in sustainable development.

Minister Mateja Čalušić officially launched the “Innovative Stories of Women from Rural Areas” exhibition, a key initiative of the Horizon Europe-funded FLIARA project, highlighting the transformative power of women who are driving change in the Slovenian countryside.

Despite representing only 20% of farm owners in Slovenia, these women are proving to be powerful agents of innovation, entrepreneurs, and community builders. As Minister Čalušić aptly noted, they face a “double responsibility,” balancing the demands of farm management with family life, yet consistently demonstrate remarkable resilience and adaptability.

“Women farmers and entrepreneurs in rural areas navigate a complex landscape of challenges, often remaining less visible despite their indispensable contributions,” she stated. “They are the backbone of many rural communities.”

The FLIARA project, a collaborative effort involving 15 partners from 10 European nations, including the Faculty of Arts at the University of Ljubljana, aims to amplify the recognition of these vital contributions. Dr. Barbara Lampič, representing the University, emphasised the project’s dedication to making these women’s innovations visible and valued within rural economies.

This exhibition, now open to the public in the Ministry’s lobby for a month, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and achievements of these “hidden heroes,” showcasing their innovative practices and their unwavering commitment to a sustainable future.

The event underscores a growing acknowledgement of the crucial role of women in rural development across Europe resulting from the FLIARA Project. While challenges persist, the stories showcased in Ljubljana serve as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of women in shaping the future of agriculture and rural communities across the continent. This re-emphasis on their contributions reflects a long-standing but sometimes overlooked reality, now being brought into sharper focus.