Why Italian graduates are choosing life on the farm

[The Lawspeaker]

Italy's youth is breathing new life into the country's rural areas. In the past two years, the number of young graduates - often from urban centres - starting up their businesses in the countryside has increased by 35%. Many are driven by a deep appreciation of Italy's rich local produce and have a good understanding of environmentally-friendly practices. These new forms of agriculture are now playing a significant role in youth employment and Italy's economic recovery. A programme prepared by Patrick Lovett, Gaëlle Essoo and Florence Viala.

Italy has more farmers than most EU countries, second only to Poland. The farming population across the EU, however, is ageing and a shortage of young farmers could put production in jeopardy. The average age of a farmer in Italy is now 58. The latest EU Common Agriculture Policy provides funds to encourage young people to get their hands dirty. FRANCE 24 looks at how much of that budget is actually making it to the ground. Co-financed by the European Commission. This reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained.