Small Farm Survival Through Trust and Social Networks: A Case Study of Raciechowice, Poland
Posted: 11 Aug 2016
Date Written: August 10, 2006
Abstract
Small, subsistence-farming operations have patched the countryside and the cultural framework of Poland throughout its history. This tradition is threatened by globalization, especially Poland's recent entry into the European Union. EU rural restructuring programs seek to remedy the inefficiencies of Poland's "fragmented" agrarian structure so that Poland can participate in the EU's Common Agricultural Market; yet, increases in global competitiveness come at the cost of many environmental and economic effects, as well as a dislocation of the traditional social fabric in rural Poland. This study examines current and potential areas for farmer and local government (gmina) involvement in protection of farmland as an attempt to prevent such adverse outcomes while still increasing farm viability and profitability. Sixteen structured interviews with local government officials, current small farmers and ex-small farmers were conducted in Raciechowice, a traditional small farming community 40 km southeast of Krakow.
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