From glass to grass ceiling: Addressing gender barriers in agricultural innovation

Gender equality is a fundamental value of the European Union (EU), as reflected in its policy framework. Despite commendable progress, gender disparities persist, particularly in the agricultural sector. Central and Eastern European countries merit particular attention due to their transforming rural areas and the need to ensure social equality. The issues of gender equality in Lithuanian agriculture have not been sufficiently explored, and patriarchal thinking remains prevalent in the country. The main objective of this paper is to determine the gender norms and barriers faced by women innovators in Lithuanian agriculture and to identify opportunities for improvement. This study adopts a three-stage qualitative approach, including focus group discussions (FGDs)—two exclusively for men and two for women—and 14 interviews, with a total of 34 participants from across Lithuania. The research is based on questionnaires and guidelines developed in the GRASS CEILING (Gender Equality in Rural and Agricultural Innovation Systems) Horizon Europe project for 2023–2025. Through FGDs and interviews with agricultural experts, this study unveils the motives, barriers, and differences among male and female innovators in agriculture and identifies the gender norms confronting women agricultural innovators. This research provides a pivotal contribution to understanding gender dynamics in Lithuanian agriculture and offers valuable insights for broader agricultural policy enhancements.