Innovation-oriented approach in the Valencian agricultural sector: A gender-based analysis

Social transformations have helped with the inclusion of women in the rural workforce, as have the processes of globalisation and modernisation. These changes have increased the presence of women’s labour in rural areas and their involvement in economic production, not only due to necessity but also as a means of achieving autonomy. However, major gender inequalities persist, affecting women’s employment. Such inequalities entail higher unemployment and inactivity rates, higher levels of informality, and inferior working conditions, including lower wages. Given this situation, a variety of institutions at the regional, national, and supranational levels have recognised the importance of promoting gender equality as a catalyst for sustainable development in rural areas. Agriculture is a key driver of development in rural areas, and innovation processes are fundamental for ensuring sustainability. In this context, embracing the gender perspective is paramount to ensure a just ecological transition. The inherent social, institutional, and structural factors in the rural environment constrain the labour participation of women, due to deeply rooted gender barriers. Women are frequently consigned to the domestic sphere and are relegated to secondary roles within family farms, whilst men play a dominant role in both ownership and decision making. Even when women are owners or entrepreneurs, their leadership style is often influenced by family obligations and traditions. This study uses mixed methods to shed light on the role of gender in agricultural innovation in the region of Valencia (Spain). The aim is to identify gender differences in terms of active participation in the agricultural sector of the region and in relation to the individual, organisational, and contextual factors that influence decision making regarding innovation in the sector. This study uses official statistics from secondary sources to examine the progress of women in the agricultural labour market in the region of Valencia (Spain) from 2011 onwards. In parallel, the analysis of primary data using mixed methods (a survey of farm owners and qualitative interviews) enables examination of key variables to identify the innovative profile of female agricultural producers in this region. The findings reveal no significant differences between men and women with regard to their innovative capabilities, although women tend to be more oriented towards the market, sustainability, and collaboration. Nevertheless, their lower engagement in cooperatives and networks impedes their involvement in innovation processes. Although many women manage agricultural holdings, these businesses are predominantly male-owned, which limits women’s representation in key areas for innovation. Task assignment continues to follow a conventional model, thereby perpetuating established gender roles. However, the study shows that women are active agents of rural transformation and are essential for a sustainable future. Therefore, the gender perspective must be incorporated into all public policies and stereotypes must be dismantled to achieve true equality in rural areas.