For an agroecological and feminist Ater for women!

Abstract

This theoretical essay aims to present approximations amongst technical assistance and rural
extension (Ater), agroecology and feminism as strategies to promote women’s autonomy. We
consider that agroecology and feminism seek to break down dominant paradigms in science and
as a consequence on structuring of public policies for rural development. The advances in the
period from 2003 to 2015 in the incorporation of the agroecological matrix and the feminist content
of Ater were due to the institutional political orientation of the Federal Government and the
agenda presented by the women’s and feminists’ social movements. This study was based on
the literature, on our personal experience in the elaboration and execution of policies for rural women
and in the National Policy of Technical Assistance and Rural Extension. It also reflects previous
studies on Ater and Women and is an element of our ongoing masters research projects.