The results show that, although good practices are implemented in several countries, similar obstacles to generational renewal of farms persist across Europe. The main challenges include limited access to land and finance, complex bureaucracy, and insufficient training and advisory support. The study also emphasizes the need to promote gender equality and improve the overall attractiveness of rural areas.
Key recommendations from the study include:
- Better targeting of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) interventions, with more clearly defined conditions (for example, a harmonised definition of “active farmer”);
- Simplification of public land lease contracts and measures to curb speculative land ownership;
- Enhanced support for loan provision and national guarantees aimed at young people;
- Improved accessibility of advisory and training services.
The study also highlights the importance of a holistic policy approach, in which CAP measures are aligned with national initiatives in education, social policy, and mental well-being.
The final English report, "Assessment of Generational Renewal Strategies across EU Member States", is available on the website of the European CAP Network.
The Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge thanks all experts, organisations, and representatives of the agricultural sector who shared their knowledge and experiences and contributed to the success of the study.
Description of the Study
The CAP Network prepared the study “Assessment of Generational Renewal Strategies across EU Member States” at the request of the European Commission. The aim of the study was to assess generational renewal strategies in EU Member States, identify successful practices, and provide recommendations for supporting young farmers.
The study covers all 27 EU Member States and includes comparative analyses at both European and national levels.
In Estonia, data was collected and contributed to the case study by the Unit of Rural Economy research team at the Centre of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge.
Further Information
Within the CAP Strategic Plan 2023–2027, one of the key focus areas has been set as Specific Objective EE 7: “To make the sector attractive for young farmers and support them, and to foster the development of sustainable businesses in rural areas.”
The achievement of this specific objective will be evaluated in two stages:
- In 2025, the success of implementation will be assessed, with an interim evaluation report to be published in early 2026;
- In 2028, the results and overall impact will be evaluated, with an interim report expected in early 2029.
The monitoring reports and related materials are available on the METK website.
