Dimensions of development and capacity building in agenda setting for family farming

Abstract

The history of family farming cannot be distinguished from the history of the formation of the national territory and, therefore, is directly related to the process of social, economic and environmental development of our nation. Since the beginning of the process of occupation of the Brazilian territory, family farming has not been duly considered by the State in formulating the country’s development model. In fact, it took a long time for family farming to become relevant on the federal government’s decision-making agenda, as it did not meet the development model advocated by the dominant political elite in periods of growth or modernization of agriculture. Family farming was and still is misunderstood by many sectors as subsistence farming and, in this regard, remained for a long time on the sidelines of State public policies, with residual actions of agricultural policies as a whole This negligence and lack of prestige in formulating the political agenda fueled a cycle of inequalities and regional disparities that demand short- and long-term structural actions to be interrupted. Facing this problem becomes necessary for the country to be able to advance in levels of development compatible with the desired standard. These discussions between development, capacity building and agenda setting will underpin this document. We hope that this text provokes concerns and reflections in social actors capable of influencing the trajectory of Brazilian family farming. We wish that it supports parliamentary actions and government plans by secretariats and ministries, and that it encourages joint efforts by national and international bodies and agencies committed to family farming and the collective benefits it generates for our planet. In addition, this document can encourage actions and greater engagement by the private sector and philanthropic institutions, towards the development and strengthening of family farming.