Globalisation and Agricultural Labour

David Bell
14 hours ago
11 min read

Globalisation has reshaped agricultural labour by connecting economies, increasing productivity, and introducing advanced farming technologies. However, these changes have displaced many workers, reduced manual labour demand, and concentrated power among multinational corporations. Here's a quick breakdown:

Declining Employment: Farm jobs dropped from 1 billion in 2003 to 841 million in 2020, despite higher food production.
Multinational Influence: Large corporations dominate supply chains, leaving small farmers with limited bargaining power.
Technology's Impact: Automation has replaced manual roles, creating a demand for technical skills but displacing unskilled workers.
Regional Disparities: Wealthier nations benefit from modern inputs, while poorer regions face price volatility and job instability.
Labour Rights: International organisations like the ILO aim to protect workers, improve safety, and reduce child labour.

While globalisation has created opportunities like export markets and advanced farming methods, it has also led to challenges like job insecurity and unequal competition. Solutions, such as retraining workers and promoting ethical practices, are essential for a fairer future in agriculture.

How Globalisation Changed Agricultural Labour Markets

Globalisation has reshaped agricultural labour markets across the globe. From 2000 to 2021, data from 101 countries highlighted how employment in agriculture, exchange rates, and foreign direct investment have played key roles in influencing agricultural value-added worldwide [1]. This interconnected global economy has redefined the skills and roles of farmers.

Economic Pressures and the Role of Multinational Corporations

Multinational corporations now hold significant influence over agricultural markets, controlling supply chains from seed production to retail distribution [3]. These corporations, with their extensive resources and global networks, create intense competition for smaller producers.

The concentration of market power has left many local farmers at a disadvantage. Competing with corporations backed by substantial financial resources has reduced the bargaining power of individual farmers [3]. Price volatility is another challenge, as decisions made by these global players - such as altering sourcing strategies or adjusting production volumes - can cause sudden shifts in demand and pricing, directly impacting local livelihoods.

Additionally, smaller producers often struggle to access premium markets. Multinational corporations frequently secure exclusive contracts with major buyers, leaving smaller farmers to contend in commodity markets where profit margins are minimal. While market dominance influences pricing and demand, advances in technology are further reshaping labour dynamics.

Technology's Impact on Labour Demand

Technology is transforming the agricultural workforce. Automation and advanced machinery are replacing traditional manual labour, creating a demand for workers with technical skills to operate complex equipment, manage digital systems, and analyse data-driven farming techniques [2].

Although globalisation has boosted productivity through crop specialisation and modern inputs, automation has drastically reduced the need for seasonal workers [2]. This has led to a divided labour market. Workers with the skills to embrace new technologies can secure higher-paying, specialised roles, while those without access to education or retraining face displacement from an industry increasingly driven by technological advancements [2].

To keep pace with these changes, investment in education and vocational training has become crucial. However, in many areas, the lack of reskilling opportunities means the gap between available jobs and worker capabilities continues to grow.

Regional Variations in Agricultural Employment

The effects of globalisation on agricultural employment vary significantly by region, often shaped by income levels and market exposure. High-income countries have benefited from foreign direct investment and access to advanced inputs, achieving productivity gains that often reduce agricultural employment while increasing value-added per worker [1].

In lower-income and lower-middle-income countries, exposure to global markets brings greater volatility. Exchange rate fluctuations can have a severe impact on employment and income stability in these regions [1]. Meanwhile, upper-middle-income countries are particularly affected by changes in the cost and availability of raw material imports [1].

These regional disparities highlight the uneven impact of globalisation, with some areas adapting more successfully than others to the shifting demands of agricultural labour markets.

International Labour Organisations in Agriculture

As globalisation continues to reshape agricultural labour markets, organisations like the ILO, FAO, and IUF are stepping up to establish fair labour standards and protect the rights of agricultural workers worldwide [3]. Their role has become increasingly important as multinational corporations expand their reach and technology transforms traditional farming practices.

Better Working Conditions and Labour Policies

International labour organisations have created frameworks to tackle the specific challenges faced by agricultural workers. A key example is the ILO's Convention No. 184 on Safety and Health in Agriculture - the only global standard addressing risks such as chemical exposure, machinery-related accidents, and excessive working hours [3]. With agriculture employing over 1 billion people globally (around 28% of the workforce), it remains one of the most dangerous sectors, accounting for approximately 170,000 worker deaths every year [3].

Through its Decent Work Agenda, which operates in over 90 countries, the ILO focuses on eliminating child and forced labour, ensuring fair wages, and setting safety standards. This is particularly critical as 60% of child labour worldwide occurs in agriculture. Targeted initiatives are making a difference. For instance, in 2022, the ILO collaborated with the Kenyan government under its Work in Freedom programme, offering training and legal support to more than 10,000 agricultural workers. This effort led to a 30% drop in workplace injuries and a 15% increase in average wages [3]. Alongside these labour policies, international organisations are also encouraging ethical agricultural practices.

Supporting Ethical Agricultural Practices

Understanding the connection between worker welfare and environmental sustainability, international labour organisations advocate for integrated approaches to ethical farming. For example, the FAO's Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development (SARD) framework combines social equity with environmental care [3]. These organisations also promote agroecology, fair trade, and corporate accountability to protect both workers and the planet [3].

In 2021, Fairtrade International certified over 1.9 million agricultural workers across 73 countries. This certification resulted in a 12% boost in household income for certified workers and a 25% drop in child labour cases [3]. However, despite these positive steps, challenges remain. Weak enforcement mechanisms, limited monitoring resources, informal work arrangements, and the complexity of global supply chains often leave many workers vulnerable. To address these issues, initiatives are increasingly turning to digital technologies and prioritising the inclusion of women, migrants, and young people in policy-making processes [3].

The ongoing work of these international organisations is crucial in building more ethical agricultural systems. As groups like The Cultivarian Society explore innovations like cultivated meat, efforts to reduce the negative effects of industrial farming on workers and the environment remain essential.

Challenges and Opportunities in Global Agriculture

The globalisation of agriculture has brought both hurdles for traditional farming communities and potential avenues for more sustainable and efficient practices.

Challenges: Job Insecurity and Unequal Competition

Farmers today face significant challenges due to market instability, which leads to unpredictable price fluctuations. Local producers often find themselves up against multinational corporations with far superior resources, advanced technology, and extensive market reach. This imbalance has resulted in a concentration of wealth, where a few large agribusinesses dominate global food production, leaving smaller farmers struggling to stay afloat [3].

The increasing reliance on advanced farming tools - such as machinery, fertilisers, and pesticides - has undeniably boosted productivity. However, this shift has significantly reduced the need for manual labour, particularly in developing rural areas [2]. As mechanisation takes over, traditional agricultural jobs are disappearing, leaving many without stable employment.

Adding to the pressure, small-scale farmers are grappling with falling wages. Global market forces drive down labour costs while input expenses - like seeds, equipment, and fertilisers - continue to rise. This leaves smaller producers squeezed financially, with limited bargaining power to secure fair prices or contracts. Large corporations, with their dominant market position, often dictate terms, further marginalising smaller players. Research covering 101 countries from 2000 to 2021 highlights how these challenges disproportionately affect low- and lower-middle-income nations, where exchange rate fluctuations and foreign investment patterns exacerbate vulnerabilities [1].

These issues underscore the urgent need to explore innovative and cooperative approaches to create a more equitable agricultural landscape.

Opportunities: Collaboration and Technological Innovation

Despite these challenges, global agriculture offers promising opportunities through collaboration and technological advancements. International partnerships are enabling the exchange of knowledge, technology, and farming practices across borders. This helps smaller producers access resources and markets that were once out of reach. By focusing on crops where they hold a comparative advantage, countries can enhance productivity and unlock new economic possibilities [2].

Access to modern agricultural tools and techniques has significantly increased productivity in many regions. When paired with robust worker protections, these advancements can improve efficiency and working conditions. However, for these benefits to be meaningful, they must extend beyond large corporations and reach smaller producers [2].

Emerging technologies are also reshaping the agricultural sector. For instance, cultivated meat - produced without traditional animal farming - offers a groundbreaking way to reduce environmental impact while creating new job opportunities in biotechnology and food science. Organisations like the Cultivarian Society advocate for such innovations, aiming to build ethical and sustainable food systems that could also provide alternative careers for those displaced by shifts in traditional agriculture.

Additionally, the expansion of global trade networks presents new opportunities for farmers. By diversifying markets, agricultural workers can gain access to premium and fair trade markets, potentially leading to higher incomes and more stable livelihoods. With the right policies and international agreements in place, these connections can significantly benefit farming communities [1].

Between 1961 and 2020, global agriculture saw remarkable growth in both output and efficiency [4]. By aligning modern policies with technological progress and investing in worker retraining, globalisation has the potential to create a more equitable and resilient agricultural future. Achieving this vision will require coordinated efforts from policymakers, industry leaders, and international organisations. Key steps include supporting smallholders with access to technology and markets, retraining displaced workers, and developing ethical food systems that prioritise fairness and sustainability.

Future Solutions: The Cultivarian Society's Approach

As global agriculture faces increasing challenges from labour displacement and environmental pressures, new ideas are emerging to tackle these issues head-on. The Cultivarian Society is one such initiative, offering a fresh perspective on food production that seeks to address both ethical and environmental concerns tied to traditional farming methods.

Building Ethical Food Systems

The Cultivarian Society promotes cultivated meat as a way to overcome the challenges posed by industrial farming. This method significantly reduces its environmental footprint, requiring 92% fewer emissions and 99% less land compared to conventional livestock farming. With over 250 companies worldwide involved in this space[5], the movement is gaining momentum.

Founded by David Bell, the organisation focuses on education, public engagement, and global advocacy to raise awareness and encourage policy changes that support cultivated meat technologies. By partnering with scientists and startups, the society works to connect technological advancements with public acceptance. This ethical shift not only addresses environmental concerns but also creates new job opportunities for those whose livelihoods have traditionally depended on farming.

Supporting Workers in a Changing Industry

Globalisation and mechanisation have disrupted many traditional roles, making it essential to provide alternative opportunities for affected workers. The cultivated meat industry offers a promising path forward, with roles requiring expertise in areas like cell culture and biotechnology. Retraining programmes are key to equipping workers with these new skills, while their existing knowledge of food production can be adapted for use in these modern facilities.

Beyond direct employment, cultivated meat facilities can strengthen local economies by creating jobs and boosting related industries such as equipment manufacturing and quality control. This diversification reduces reliance on traditional farming while still preserving food production roles, fostering resilience in regional economies.

However, technology alone isn't enough to ensure a smooth transition. The Cultivarian Society recognises the importance of tailoring solutions to regional needs, ensuring that new food systems align with local contexts. By advocating for supportive regulatory frameworks and sustainable practices, the society aims to create an environment where both workers and communities can thrive. These efforts are critical to reshaping global agricultural labour markets, paving the way for a more balanced and inclusive future.

Conclusion: Building a Fair Agricultural Future

The face of agricultural labour has shifted dramatically due to globalisation. While productivity has soared, many workers have been displaced by the rise of global corporations and advancing technologies. To move forward, the focus must shift towards creating systems that are both equitable and sustainable. This involves implementing strong standards and encouraging consumers to make informed choices that prioritise fair practices.

Organisations like international labour bodies are at the forefront of this transformation. They establish critical standards to safeguard workers' rights and promote ethical practices throughout global supply chains [3]. By monitoring compliance and advocating for better workplace conditions, they lay the foundation for fairness. However, addressing the challenges of industrial farming will also require fresh, innovative solutions.

Consumer interest in ethical products is growing, and this is driving change. Emerging technologies, such as cultivated meat, are adding to these efforts by offering sustainable alternatives. With 259 companies globally engaged in the development of cultivated meat [5], this innovation is not only creating new jobs but also providing significant environmental advantages. Compared to traditional livestock farming, cultivated meat requires far less land and generates much lower emissions [5].

Global collaboration remains a cornerstone of progress. Initiatives like fair trade programmes and support for small-scale farmers have already shown how labour conditions and economic outcomes can improve [3]. These efforts provide valuable templates for expanding ethical practices across various regions and farming sectors.

The future of agricultural labour will depend on collective efforts to support workers through these transitions while adopting technologies that lessen environmental harm. By championing ethical food production and sustainable approaches, we can help shape agricultural systems that work for everyone.

FAQs

What challenges do small-scale farmers face in competing with multinational corporations in a globalised agricultural market, and how can they overcome them?

Small-scale farmers often face tough hurdles when trying to compete with multinational corporations. These challenges include limited access to crucial resources, the inability to benefit from economies of scale, and being left out of global supply chains. The rise of globalisation has only made things harder, creating fiercely competitive markets that tend to favour large-scale operations.

However, there are ways for smaller farmers to carve out their own space. By tapping into niche markets, adopting sustainable farming methods, and selling directly to consumers, they can attract buyers who prioritise locally produced, ethical, or environmentally conscious products. Organisations like international labour groups and advocacy networks also play a vital role in this fight. They support fair trade policies, provide essential training, and promote fair labour standards. These efforts not only help smaller producers compete but also contribute to a more balanced and sustainable agricultural system.

How can we support agricultural workers affected by automation and technological changes?

As automation and technology continue to transform agriculture, it's crucial to support workers navigating these changes. Here are some ways to help:

Upskilling and retraining programmes: Offering education and training in areas like sustainable farming, technology maintenance, or even roles in other industries can open new doors for workers and help them stay relevant in a changing job market.
Government and organisational support: Financial aid, job placement schemes, and tax breaks for companies hiring displaced workers can make the transition smoother and less daunting.
Community-based initiatives: Local projects such as agri-tourism, urban farming, or food processing ventures can create alternative job opportunities while strengthening local economies.

International organisations, including labour unions and advocacy groups, also play a key role. They work to protect workers' rights, push for fair treatment, and encourage sustainable practices. By bringing together governments, businesses, and communities, we can create a future-ready agricultural workforce that's both adaptable and resilient.

How do international labour organisations help improve working conditions in agriculture?

International labour organisations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), play a vital role in improving working conditions within the agricultural sector. They focus on promoting fair labour standards, safeguarding workers' rights, and addressing critical issues like exploitation and unsafe working environments. By collaborating with governments, unions, and employers, these organisations help shape policies that ensure agricultural workers receive fair wages, operate in safe conditions, and benefit from social protections.

Moreover, they offer support and resources to confront pressing global issues such as child labour, forced labour, and gender inequality in agriculture. Their initiatives aim to build a fairer agricultural labour market that supports both workers and the broader industry.