Generational Change in Agriculture – What Do Hungarian Farmers Say? – Barriers, Supporting Factors, and Generational Differences in the Farm Succession [védés előtt]

Abstract

The lack of generational renewal in agriculture represents an increasing challenge worldwide, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, for the long-term sustainability of food production and the viability of rural areas. In Hungary, the ageing structure of farm managers and the low participation of younger generations make the succession of family farms a highly significant issue. This dissertation examines the process of agricultural generational change, with a particular focus on family farm succession in Hungary, aiming to identify the main barriers and supporting factors, and to analyse the role of socio-demographic characteristics and family dynamics in decision-making. The research follows a mixed-methods approach, based on a systematic literature review. In total, 55 English-language scientific publications were analysed in depth. As a result, the main barriers and supporting factors influencing agricultural generational change were identified and categorised. Empirical data were collected through 19 semi-structured in-depth interviews and a questionnaire survey completed by 249 respondents. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis, while quantitative data were processed using regression-based statistical methods. In both empirical studies, farmers assessed the barriers and supporting factors on a five-point Likert scale. This allowed for a detailed analysis of each factor and the presentation of their relative importance and weight in the generational change process. The theoretical framework integrates the theory of family firms, generational theory, and the socioemotional wealth (SEW) approach, enabling a multidimensional interpretation of farm succession. The thematic analysis of the semi-structured interviews focused on four main themes: farming as an inheritance and a natural life path; motivations for farm succession; administrative burdens as obstacles; and generational differences and cooperation. The results indicate that successful farm succession is primarily supported by family mechanisms. Early involvement of younger family members in farm work, gradual transfer of responsibilities, and active participation in decision-making enhance the smoothness and openness of succession discussions. Regression analysis confirms that these family factors, along with financial incentives—particularly targeted support for young farmers—significantly increase the likelihood of active engagement in the succession process, while socio-demographic factors, including age, education, and the active role of women, further shape participation. The findings also show that farm succession is primarily constrained by economic uncertainty, labour shortages, climate change, and administrative burdens. At the same time, financial incentives, reduction of administrative burdens, tax relief, digitalisation, and support for young farmers significantly facilitate successful farm succession. The process of agricultural generational change reflects the interplay of economic, legal, family, and emotional factors, underscoring its complexity.