How Automation Affects Migrant Farm Workers

David Bell
11 minutes ago
14 min read

The shift to automation in farming is reshaping work for migrant farm workers, especially in the UK and Europe. Here’s the key takeaway: automation is reducing manual jobs while creating demand for technical skills many migrant workers struggle to access. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Manual jobs are disappearing: Machines like robotic harvesters have cut labour needs by up to 70%.
New technical roles are emerging: Jobs in machine operation and maintenance require skills and certifications that many migrant workers lack.
Labour shortages drive automation: Farms are investing heavily in automation due to fewer available workers and rising wages.
Mixed impacts on working conditions: While automation reduces physical strain and workplace hazards, it increases job insecurity and surveillance.
Economic and social effects: Communities dependent on migrant labour face reduced local spending and disrupted livelihoods.

The future hinges on retraining and support systems to help workers transition to new roles, ensuring automation doesn’t deepen inequalities.

How Automation Changes Job Availability

The rise of automation in farming is transforming job opportunities for migrant workers across the UK. While technology brings increased efficiency, it also creates a challenging environment where traditional roles are disappearing, and new, specialised positions are emerging that require different skills.

Fewer Manual Labour Jobs

Automated harvesting machines are rapidly replacing the manual tasks that have historically been the backbone of migrant employment. These advanced systems can cut labour needs by as much as 70%, fundamentally altering farm operations [3][5]. Jobs like fruit picking, planting, weeding, and spraying - once reliant on large seasonal workforces - are now increasingly managed by machines.

The impact is particularly noticeable in sectors heavily dependent on migrant labour. Take strawberry picking, for example: robotic systems are now handling the delicate harvesting process, leading to significant reductions in the need for human workers. As manual roles diminish, the focus shifts towards the technical expertise required to operate and maintain these machines.

More Technical Jobs Required

While automation reduces the need for manual labour, it opens up opportunities for technical roles such as machine operators, robotics technicians, data analysts, and maintenance staff. However, these positions often require skills and qualifications that many migrant workers lack, creating a barrier to entry [3][5].

Language barriers, limited formal training, and restricted access to education make it difficult for migrant workers to transition into these new roles [4][5]. Many technical positions also demand certifications or advanced qualifications, which can be out of reach for those without the necessary resources or support. Additionally, as technology evolves faster than training programmes can keep up, the skills gap continues to widen. This growing divide risks sidelining a workforce that has historically played a vital role in the agricultural sector.

UK and Global Data

The shift towards technical roles reflects a broader restructuring of agricultural labour, both in the UK and internationally. Labour costs now account for nearly half of production expenses, driving the push for greater automation [3]. In California, for instance, some farms have reduced their labour needs by up to 70% through advanced machinery [3][5]. Western Europe is seeing similar trends, with countries like Italy, Spain, Germany, and France increasingly adopting automation to combat labour shortages.

Statistics highlight the heavy reliance on migrant labour in agriculture. In the US, for example, 47–60% of crop farm workers were undocumented immigrants as of 2015, while dairy and livestock operations employed 30–50% undocumented workers as of 2025 [7].

Region	Labour Reduction	Primary Driver	Timeline
UK	Up to 70% in automated sectors	Labour shortages post-Brexit	2020–2025
California	70% reduction with advanced machines	Cost pressures and regulation	2015–2025
Western Europe	16% availability decline since 2011	Demographic shifts and automation	2011–present

Despite these advancements, agriculture remains highly dependent on migrant and undocumented workers in labour-intensive sectors [6][7]. However, this reliance is gradually shifting. Instead of large seasonal workforces, the industry is moving towards smaller teams with specialised skills, reflecting a global trend towards fewer but more technically demanding roles in farming.

How Working Conditions Change

Automation has brought mixed outcomes for migrant farm workers, improving safety in some areas while introducing new challenges. While technology helps reduce physical strain and certain workplace hazards, it also raises concerns about job security, privacy, and access to training.

Safer Work and Less Physical Strain

One of the most noticeable benefits of automation is the reduction in physical demands and workplace dangers. Traditional farm work often exposes workers to harmful pesticides, harsh weather, and repetitive tasks that can lead to long-term injuries. Automated systems are stepping in to take over many of these high-risk duties.

For instance, robotic harvesters and automated weeding machines now handle tasks like heavy lifting, bending, and exposure to chemicals. GPS-guided tractors minimise the need for workers to operate in extreme weather conditions, and automated milking systems reduce the physical toll of dairy work. According to the International Labour Organization, automation has the potential to cut workplace injuries in agriculture by up to 40% by removing people from hazardous roles like pesticide application or operating heavy machinery.

The use of automated drones and robotic pickers has also made a difference. These technologies have been shown to lower physical strain and heat-related illnesses by 25–50%, while also boosting worker satisfaction by 15%.

"Automation not only enhances productivity but also significantly improves the safety and working conditions for farm workers." - Dr. Emily Carter, Agricultural Technology Expert, FAO

New Challenges from Automation

Despite these safety improvements, automation has introduced its own set of difficulties. Increased surveillance and job reductions are two major issues that negatively affect workers' wellbeing. Advanced monitoring systems now track worker movements and productivity in real-time, leading to heightened stress and reduced privacy.

The shift towards automation also reduces the number of available manual jobs, leaving workers with less power to negotiate better wages or working conditions. Many fear being replaced by machines, which can make them hesitant to raise concerns or demand improvements. A 2024 study by the University of California revealed that farms using automated harvesting technologies experienced a 30% decline in manual labour positions, significantly impacting migrant workers. This uncertainty not only affects their current employment but also their ability to plan for their families' futures.

"The rise of automation in agriculture poses significant challenges for migrant workers, particularly in terms of job security and working conditions." - Dr. Maria Gonzalez, Labour Economist, International Labour Organization [1]

The psychological toll of automation cannot be overlooked. Workers in highly automated environments often report increased anxiety and lower job satisfaction, largely due to fears of job loss and the challenges of adapting to unfamiliar technologies [4].

Barriers to Training and Technology Access

One of the biggest hurdles for migrant workers is the digital divide that limits access to technical training. Language barriers, limited digital literacy, and a lack of educational resources make it difficult for many to adapt to automation.

Training programmes for technical roles often require skills like English proficiency and basic computer knowledge, which many migrant workers lack. Even when such programmes are available, workers face additional challenges, such as the inability to take time off work, lack of transportation, or the financial burden of certification courses. These barriers leave many unable to participate in training opportunities.

In the UK, some agricultural organisations and government initiatives have started offering digital literacy and technical skills training for farm workers. However, access remains uneven, and many migrant workers find it difficult to attend due to irregular work hours, family responsibilities, or logistical challenges [4]. The rapid pace of technological advancements only adds to the problem, as training programmes struggle to keep up, widening the skills gap even further.

This gap creates a two-tier workforce. Those with access to training and technology are able to transition into better-paying technical roles, while others are left behind, often marginalised by ethnic or economic divides. Such disparities not only limit immediate job opportunities but also threaten the long-term stability of migrant workers in the agricultural sector. The growing digital divide risks creating deeper economic and social inequalities, leaving some workers increasingly vulnerable in an evolving industry.

The move towards automation in agriculture is reshaping local economies, particularly in areas heavily reliant on seasonal agricultural labour. Migrant workers - who play a crucial role in the UK's agricultural sector - are among the most affected. These changes are influencing both wages and the livelihoods of local communities.

Effects on Wages and Communities

Automation has had a noticeable impact on wage structures in agriculture, presenting challenges for migrant workers. Around 64,000 seasonal migrant workers are employed in the UK's agricultural sector, especially in fruit and vegetable picking [11]. However, as automation reduces the demand for these roles, wages could stagnate or even decline [10][11].

To address labour shortages while encouraging technological innovation, the UK government expanded the Seasonal Worker visa scheme from 2,500 visas in 2019 to 45,000 in 2023. Simultaneously, it invested £12.5 million in 2022 to help businesses develop robotic and automated solutions for agriculture [8]. While these measures aim to balance labour needs and innovation, rural communities that rely on migrant workers are experiencing significant economic shifts. Fewer workers mean reduced footfall for local businesses such as shops and transport services, creating a ripple effect of economic disruption. Each job lost in agriculture impacts not just the worker but also the broader community.

"The introduction of automation technologies is seen as a critical strategy to mitigate the dependency on seasonal migrant labour in the UK." – Simon Pearson, Director of the Lincoln Institute of Agri-food Technology [10]

Globally, the agricultural automation market is expected to grow to $87.9 billion by 2025, reflecting the increasing focus on technology over human labour [9].

Beyond the economic consequences, automation is profoundly affecting the social fabric of migrant communities. According to the International Labour Organization, up to 50% of agricultural jobs could be automated in the next decade, posing a severe challenge to migrant labour markets [1]. In the UK, the number of seasonal agricultural workers has already dropped by 30% since the introduction of automated systems, leading to higher unemployment among these workers.

"The rapid advancement of automation in agriculture poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of migrant workers, who are often the first to be affected by job losses." – Maria Gonzalez, Senior Policy Advisor, International Labour Organization [1]

This displacement of workers has far-reaching social consequences. Financial instability, disrupted education for children, and weakened community support systems are common outcomes. Many migrant workers face limited access to retraining opportunities, further marginalising them. The need to relocate frequently in search of work also disrupts family life and erodes community ties, making it harder for these individuals to establish stability.

Government Policy and Rules

Governments are beginning to respond to the challenges posed by automation, though efforts remain fragmented. In the UK, £1.5 million has been allocated to pilot retraining programmes aimed at helping displaced workers transition to new roles within agriculture or related industries. Across the Atlantic, the California Department of Food and Agriculture launched a programme in 2024 that provided US$2 million in grants to train migrant workers in agricultural technologies, resulting in a 30% rise in job placements.

In 2025, the UK's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) introduced a scheme offering subsidies to farmers who employed migrant workers while adopting automated systems. This initiative aimed to ensure that wages remained competitive and fair during the transition.

"To ensure a fair transition, we must invest in our workforce and provide the necessary training and support for those affected by automation." – Jane Smith, Director of Agricultural Policy, UK Government

Effective policies need to focus on retraining workers in digital and technical skills, creating safety nets for those displaced, and fostering partnerships between technology companies and agricultural businesses. The UK's ongoing labour shortages, driven by an ageing workforce and low wages, make these efforts even more urgent [11]. Collaboration between the government, agricultural businesses, and organisations representing migrant workers is essential to ensure that technological advancements do not disproportionately impact the most vulnerable.

Ethics and Future Directions

The rise of automation in agriculture brings with it a set of ethical challenges that go far beyond the technology itself. As machines take over tasks traditionally performed by humans, the responsibility to protect vulnerable workers - particularly migrant farm workers - becomes a pressing concern. These ethical considerations build on earlier discussions about how automation impacts job availability and working conditions.

Fair Transition Policies

Migrant worker advocates have highlighted the urgent need to address the ethical consequences of automation in agriculture. Displacement caused by automation disproportionately affects vulnerable groups, such as migrant workers, who often face limited access to alternative jobs or retraining programmes. A significant portion of agricultural roles could be impacted, leaving migrant workers at the greatest risk [1].

"We must ensure that the transition to automation does not leave our most vulnerable workers behind. Fair policies and retraining programs are essential." – Maria Gonzalez, Director of Migrant Worker Advocacy, ILO [1]

To address these challenges, fair transition strategies must be multi-faceted. Retraining programmes funded by governments are key to equipping displaced workers with the skills needed for emerging agricultural technologies. Additionally, worker cooperatives could provide opportunities for those displaced to take on roles that involve operating or supporting automated systems, rather than being excluded entirely from the sector.

Social safety nets are equally important during this period of change. Expanded unemployment benefits, improved healthcare access, and targeted educational initiatives can help displaced workers maintain their dignity and financial stability as they adapt to new realities.

Hybrid farming models offer a practical example of how automation can be implemented ethically. These models integrate automated systems with human oversight, allowing workers to transition into roles such as technology operators or maintenance technicians. Companies like Farmonaut have developed satellite-based farm management tools that boost productivity while still involving human labour, enabling workers to focus on more specialised, higher-value tasks [1][2].

Advocacy groups also play a vital role in ensuring that technological advancements are balanced with worker protections, acting as a bridge between innovation and ethical considerations.

The Cultivarian Society's Role

Tackling these ethical dilemmas requires collaborative efforts, as exemplified by organisations like The Cultivarian Society. While their primary mission focuses on cultivated meat as an alternative to industrial animal farming, their broader commitment to creating a compassionate food system provides valuable insights into managing the impact of automation on vulnerable workers.

By promoting ethical food production and reducing reliance on exploitative labour practices, The Cultivarian Society demonstrates how technological progress can benefit all stakeholders. Their science-driven approach prioritises not just efficiency but also the broader impact on human welfare.

Through education, public advocacy, and policy engagement, The Cultivarian Society supports the adoption of technologies that align with both environmental responsibility and social equity. Their work underscores the idea that sustainability must address social justice alongside environmental goals.

Balancing Progress with Fairness

Ethical automation in agriculture requires collaboration among policymakers, farmers, technology developers, and worker advocates. The goal isn't to halt technological progress but to ensure its implementation aligns with broader social objectives. Government policies must take a central role, creating frameworks that extend beyond market-driven solutions to include robust support systems for fair labour practices.

Precision agriculture technologies provide a glimpse of how automation, when thoughtfully applied, can improve working conditions. These systems optimise resource use, minimise workers' exposure to hazardous conditions, and offer opportunities for skill development. This approach not only enhances productivity but also preserves employment.

The concept of a "just transition" has gained traction as a guiding principle for ethical automation. It recognises that technological advancements often create winners and losers, placing a moral obligation on society to ensure the benefits and burdens of automation are shared fairly. For migrant farm workers, this means creating new opportunities rather than simply eliminating existing roles.

Long-term success will depend on inclusive decision-making processes that give affected communities a voice. By involving migrant workers and their advocates in shaping automation policies, society can better align technological progress with social equity, avoiding the risk of deepening existing inequalities.

The future of ethical agricultural automation hinges on the understanding that technology alone doesn't dictate outcomes. The choices made now about how automation is implemented will shape the agricultural sector for years to come. These decisions will determine whether technological progress leads to a more equitable food system or exacerbates divides between those who benefit and those who are left behind. Achieving a fair transition requires shared responsibility among all stakeholders - farmers, policymakers, and advocates - to ensure that automation serves the greater good.

Conclusion: Automation and Migrant Farm Workers

The rise of automation in agriculture is reshaping the landscape for migrant farm workers in the UK and around the world. This shift brings both opportunities and challenges, and the way forward demands a careful balance between technological advancement and social responsibility.

Data indicates that growers are increasingly turning to automation, with machines capable of reducing labour needs by as much as 70% [3][5]. This marks a significant transformation in the sector, fundamentally altering how farms operate and the roles available to workers.

While automation can improve efficiency and create safer, less physically demanding technical roles, these benefits hinge on workers having access to proper training. For migrant workers, however, barriers such as language, education, and legal status can limit their ability to seize these new opportunities. This highlights the need for targeted support to ensure they are not left behind in this transition.

The impact of automation goes beyond individual workers, affecting entire communities. Although labour shortages can drive wages up for remaining roles [5], the broader implications for community stability and sustainability are complex. Addressing these challenges requires robust support systems that help workers adapt in the short term while also fostering long-term resilience within their communities.

Examples from places like California illustrate how training programmes can help workers transition successfully into new roles [5]. However, access to such initiatives remains uneven, pointing to the need for more comprehensive and systematic approaches. These examples underline the importance of aligning technological progress with worker support to ensure fair outcomes for all.

This discussion ties into earlier points about how improved safety measures and digital training can help mitigate some of the challenges posed by automation. Initiatives like those led by The Cultivarian Society demonstrate how ethical approaches to agricultural innovation can benefit everyone involved. Their emphasis on sustainable and compassionate food systems reflects a broader goal: ensuring that technological advancements serve all stakeholders equitably.

Looking ahead, the concept of a "just transition" is critical. This approach acknowledges that automation is inevitable but insists that its benefits and burdens must be distributed fairly. Achieving this will require collaboration among policymakers, farmers, technology developers, and worker advocates to establish frameworks that uphold human dignity while enhancing efficiency.

With labour shortages remaining a pressing issue [3], shaping automation to open up new opportunities is essential. True success will not only be measured by productivity gains but also by the extent to which these advancements contribute to a fairer and more sustainable agricultural system for everyone.

FAQs

What training opportunities are available for migrant farm workers to take on technical roles created by automation?

As automation reshapes the agricultural industry, there's a growing need for technical expertise in areas like operating advanced machinery and managing automated systems. For migrant farm workers, opportunities to gain these skills are becoming more accessible through local agricultural programmes, vocational schools, and training initiatives offered by employers.

In addition, many organisations and advocacy groups are stepping up to provide resources that support upskilling. Community training centres, along with online courses, often offer flexible learning options designed to fit the unique schedules and needs of workers. By developing these technical skills, migrant workers can improve their job prospects and keep pace with the evolving demands of modern farming.

What steps are being taken to ensure automation in farming doesn’t unfairly impact migrant workers?

Automation is revolutionising agriculture, but it raises concerns about the impact on migrant workers who often depend on these jobs. To tackle these issues, initiatives are being developed to ensure fair treatment and provide opportunities for retraining. For instance, some programmes are equipping workers with new skills to help them transition into roles like operating or maintaining automated equipment.

At the same time, advocacy groups and organisations are advocating for stronger regulations to safeguard workers' rights, ensuring they aren't left behind as technology progresses. The goal is to strike a balance between technological advancement and social responsibility, shaping a farming industry that supports both its workforce and its future growth.

How does automation affect local economies and communities that depend on migrant farm workers?

The growing use of automation in agriculture is reshaping local economies and impacting communities that depend on migrant farm workers. On the one hand, automation boosts efficiency and lowers production costs for farmers. On the other, it can reduce the need for manual labour, potentially cutting job opportunities for migrant workers. For communities relying on these jobs as a key source of income, this shift could pose serious economic challenges.

That said, automation isn't just about job losses - it can also create new opportunities. Roles in areas like technology maintenance, equipment operation, and system management are becoming increasingly important. By investing in training and education programmes, workers can gain the skills needed to transition into these emerging fields. Striking a balance between advancing technology and supporting the workforce is crucial to reducing disruption and fostering inclusive economic growth.