Empowering women in agriculture for global food security and sustainability: A review

Abstract

Women constitute a substantial proportion of the global agricultural workforce and play a crucial role in ensuring food security, rural livelihoods, and sustainable agricultural development. Despite their extensive involvement in agricultural production and food systems, women frequently face structural constraints such as limited access to land, credit, training, and decision-making opportunities. These gender disparities reduce agricultural productivity and restrict the potential contribution of women to sustainable food systems. This review synthesizes literature published between 2015 and 2025 to examine the role of women’s empowerment in agriculture and its implications for global food security and sustainability. The review discusses women’s participation in agricultural production, their contribution to household food security, involvement in sustainable agricultural practices, and the major challenges that limit their empowerment. Evidence from the reviewed literature indicates that empowering women farmers significantly improves agricultural productivity, enhances household nutrition, and strengthens the resilience of farming systems. However, persistent socio-economic barriers continue to limit women’s participation in agricultural decision-making and control over productive resources. Strengthening women’s empowerment in agriculture is therefore crucial for achieving sustainable food systems and global food security.