Challenges facing agriculture in Cyprus in the last two decades

Abstract

This research investigates the factors that have led to the decline of the agricultural sector in Cyprus during the last two decades, and the role of small family businesses linked to the farming sector, as well as part-time farmers, as stewards of rural development, the environment, and cultural heritage. The gradual abandonment of the agricultural zones around the island, and the unrestrained infrastructure in the urban areas are issues particularly noticeable in the economy, society, and natural ecosystems. At the same time, the initiatives of small agriculture-related businesses and the activities of non-professional farmers that contribute to the endurance of the sector, are aspects not always supported by proper policy measures. This study employs a qualitative research approach, by first conducting a scoping literature review to highlight the gaps in the literature in relation to the role played by small agriculture-related businesses and the activities of non-professional farmers in Cyprus, to then conduct a qualitative content analysis of key documents from the EU and Cyprus to assess how and to what extent small farming-related businesses and the activities of nonprofessional farmers have been given attention and resulted in salient policy measures. Results show that little importance has been given to these two specific categories, both in terms of policy relevance and budget allocations. This suggests that further actions could be promoted to enhance support to these important actors, which are understood to be crucial for agricultural production and preservation of unique island cultural heritages.