Amman:The Higher Population Council (HPC) has called for the protection of agricultural land from urban expansion, warning that the loss of farmland threatens the income and employment opportunities in rural communities, especially for women.
According to Jordan News Agency, the call was made on the International Day of Rural Women, emphasizing that preserving agricultural land is an economic, social, and demographic issue linked to the sustainability of rural communities. The council highlighted the contributions of rural women to food security, poverty reduction, development, and natural resource conservation.
The council noted that this year's observance coincides with the International Year of the Woman Farmer, which acknowledges women's roles in agricultural and food systems. Citing the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the council clarified that "woman farmer" includes those working across agricultural and food sectors, such as farmers, livestock breeders, and rural entrepreneurs.
Challenges identified by the council include construction on fertile agricultural land, limited land ownership, restricted access to technology, and unpaid domestic responsibilities. The council emphasized the need for policies that enable women to own resources, secure financing, and participate in agricultural decision-making.
To support rural women, the council proposed stronger legislation to prevent urban expansion on agricultural land, address uneven population distribution, and launch awareness campaigns showcasing successful rural women. Additionally, it recommended establishing markets for women to sell their products and offering free workshops in digital marketing.