MEP Marko Vešligaj (S&D) has asked the European Commission to outline what financial programmes are available to improve digital literacy among older farmers, warning that the sector's ageing population risks being locked out of subsidies and modernisation opportunities. The question, submitted on 22 April 2026, targets a demographic challenge: the average EU farmer is 57, and only 12% are under 40. Vešligaj argues that older farmers are less likely to adopt digital tools, creating a barrier to accessing agricultural support schemes, submitting applications, and participating in EU-funded projects.
The written question contains two concrete asks. First, Vešligaj requests a detailed list of existing EU financial instruments and programmes that support digital education and upskilling for farmers, with a specific focus on older farmers. Second, he asks whether the Commission plans to introduce additional targeted measures within the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) or other EU funding frameworks to improve digital accessibility for the sector.
Policy orientation and ambition The MEP's question signals a push for greater inclusivity in the EU's digital transition for agriculture. By linking digital literacy directly to access to subsidies and project funding, Vešligaj frames the issue as one of equal opportunity rather than mere training. The underlying cleavage is between modernisation-driven digitalisation and the risk of excluding less tech-savvy, older farmers – a tension between efficiency gains and social equity. If the Commission responds with new measures, it could mean additional funding or simplified digital interfaces for CAP applications, benefiting older farmers and rural communities. However, any new requirements or programmes could also impose administrative costs on national authorities and potentially divert resources from other CAP priorities.
Expected follow-up The Commission is required to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it views the current CAP digital tools as sufficient or whether it is open to targeted interventions. A detailed response listing programmes would reassure stakeholders, while a vague or dismissive reply could prompt further parliamentary pressure. The question also puts the Commission on notice that the Parliament's S&D group is watching how digitalisation affects generational fairness in farming.
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