While politicians emphasize the importance of preserving family farms, the reality on the ground shows that young farmers in the Alpine region are facing increasing difficulties. According to the Fokus Einkommen report, the average farm debt has reached 580,000 Swiss francs, with an overall agricultural debt rate of 51%, one of the highest in Europe.
This staggering debt burden makes it increasingly difficult for the younger generation to take over family farms. “Taking over a farm means taking over its debts. Without financial help from the family, it is impossible to start independently,” a young farmer states in the report.
A Financial Barrier Preventing Succession
More than 55% of farms in the Alpine region are run by people over 50, meaning that in the next 15 years, many will need a successor. However, many young people do not see their future in agriculture because starting conditions are increasingly difficult.
Taking over a farm means taking on loans to purchase land, equipment, and livestock. While the government offers interest-free loans to young farmers, they must be repaid within 12 years. With rising production costs and low purchase prices, this financial pressure becomes unbearable for many.
Harsh Working Conditions Driving Young People Away
In addition to financial burdens, excessive working hours discourage young farmers. Workdays often exceed 10 to 12 hours, including weekends and holidays, leaving little room for private life.
“We want to work in agriculture, but we don’t want to be slaves to our jobs. Work-life balance is essential,” a young farmer states in Fokus Einkommen.More and more young graduates from agricultural schools are choosing better-paid jobs with better working conditions. Although 1,000 young people graduate as farmers each year, it is uncertain how many will stay in the industry.
The Future Depends on Better Conditions and Fair Prices
The Fokus Einkommen report highlights the need to:
- increase agricultural product prices,
- reduce bureaucratic barriers,
- facilitate access to loans,
- improve working conditions on farms.
If urgent measures are not taken, family farms will continue to disappear, and the agricultural structure of the Alpine region could suffer irreversible damage.
Source: https://www.paysannes.ch/
