Challenges for sexual minorities in the Swiss agricultural sector: a time for change

The situation of sexual minorities in the Swiss agricultural sector remains challenging. Despite the progress made in safeguarding the rights of sexual minorities in Switzerland, the living and working conditions of lesbian, gay or transgender women in agriculture remain difficult, as revealed by Prisca Pfammatter's study, which not only won an award in the Netherlands, but more importantly, shows us the reality of a much-needed change in Switzerland's agricultural sector.

! [Sexual Minority Groups in Swiss Agriculture](https://www.swissinfo.ch/content/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2022/03/9cb2b516c800ad6cda14397f3d69e58a-465612206_ highres-data.jpg)

© Keystone / Christian Boettler

Prisca Pfammatter's research points out that although LGBTIQ farmers' associations have begun to emerge in places like the United States and Quebec, being gay or transgender is still a difficult identity to accept in the agricultural sector in Switzerland. These farmers often choose to hide their sexual orientation or gender identity for fear of not being recognized by others.

In the course of her research, Pfammatter interviewed four lesbian or transgender people and visited their farms. She found that lesbian farmers not only face discrimination on the basis of their gender, but also face additional difficulties because of their sexual orientation. These difficulties come not only from the work environment, but also from social prejudice and discrimination.

! [Prisca Pfamat](https://www.swissinfo.ch/content/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2022/03/b72a5d279f924bf0999a2447dfc1c161-pass-data.png)

LDD

Pfammatter argues that the training system needs to be reformed in order to make the agricultural sector more inclusive. She points out that the Swiss agricultural training system is divided into two completely different tracks, one designed for women and the other attended mainly by men. This division of labor contributes to a clear and traditional distribution of gender roles, which limits women's development in agriculture.

To break down this traditional distribution of gender roles, Pfammatter suggests blending the two types of training to create more equal opportunities. She believes that the jobs people take should be based on their interests, skills or schedules, not their gender.

The situation of sexual minorities in the Swiss agricultural sector remains challenging. But through research and efforts like Prisca Pfammatter's, we can expect more changes in the future to make agriculture a more inclusive and diverse workplace.