”Water that creates opportunities” Water is the basis of equality and sustainable agriculture

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Droughts, flash floods and periods of water scarcity, which are becoming more frequent as a result of climate change, affect agriculture particularly sensitively. Water is not only the basis of production, but also the key to the sustaining power of rural communities. The message of “water that creates a chance” in agriculture expresses that the agriculture of the future can only be competitive and sustainable if water management is based on conscious, forward-looking and fair foundations. This includes the development of sustainable irrigation systems and the wide application of water-saving technologies, as well as the prioritization of natural water retention solutions, since a livable, healthy environment can only be ensured by keeping water in the landscape, which contributes to the stabilization of the local microclimate, the maintenance of soil life and biodiversity, and the mitigation of extreme weather effects. It is equally important that farmers can be involved in water-related decisions in a meaningful way and under equal conditions, since shared responsibility creates the basis for long-term success.

The effects of the global water crisis are felt worldwide, but its consequences do not affect people to the same extent

In 53 countries around the world, women and girls spend a total of 250 million hours a day carrying water – more than three times as much as men. Their experience, local knowledge and professional knowledge are indispensable, so they can have a significant impact on water-related regulatory, financing and development processes.

In Hungarian higher education and research, more and more women are choosing natural science and engineering careers

The NAK considers it important to increase the presence of female students and researchers in agricultural higher education and water courses, as there is a great need for innovative, multifaceted approaches in the fields of agricultural water management, drought management, precision farming and climate adaptation. The Association of Hungarian Farmers’ Circles and Farmers’ Cooperatives has, in addition to the National Young Farmers Section, also a National Female Farmers Section. The role of women in agriculture is not only traditionally, but also economically, environmentally and sustainably important in modern agriculture, and not least they play a key role in managing the handover of farms and motivating the new generation. On the occasion of World Water Day 2026, the National Chamber of Agriculture and the Association of Hungarian Farmers’ Cooperatives and Farmers’ Cooperatives encourage professional and social actors to treat water as a common value and to work together for a future where safe water supply is truly available to everyone.

NAK