Women power rural Europe

The EPP Group wants to empower women entrepreneurs in rural, island and outermost regions to strengthen Europe’s competitiveness and ensure a balanced regional development. Ahead of today’s vote in the Parliament’s Women’s Rights Committee on the report on women’s entrepreneurship in these areas, the EPP Group stresses that empowering women in rural areas is not only a social priority but a strategic economic imperative. 

“Women’s entrepreneurship in rural areas is not a side issue. It is a cornerstone of strong and resilient local communities,” said Elżbieta Łukacijewska MEP, the EPP negotiator in the Women’s Rights Committee. 

“In order to ensure a competitive Europe, we must make sure that transport services are well connected, that there are better childcare facilities, as well as financial and digital infrastructure,” Łukacijewska stressed. 

Rural areas cover more than 80% of the EU territory and are home to nearly 30% of its population. Yet women in these regions face disproportionate structural barriers, including insufficient transport connections, lack of childcare, gaps in digital infrastructure, restricted access to finance and, too often, economic dependency that increases the risk of poverty and domestic violence. 

Under EPP leadership, the report focuses on practical solutions. It calls for cutting administrative burdens for micro and small businesses, improving access to micro-credit and tailored financial instruments, and investing in broadband, digital skills, and education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It also recognises the vital contribution of women to family farming, food security, local value chains and traditional crafts - sectors that preserve Europe’s heritage and create jobs. 

“Women in rural areas do not need sympathy. They need real tools and equal opportunities to grow their businesses and shape the future of our economy,” Łukacijewska concluded.