Roos Saat is an aspiring farmer and a current student in the Agrarian, Food and Environmental Studies Major, part of the MA in Development Studies programme at the International Institute of Social Studies. In an interview conducted by De Correspondent, she talks about joining the fight for an agricultural revolution and seeing a better future for Dutch farmers and climate justice. You can listen to the podcast and view the transcript (in Dutch) via the De Correspondent's website or read our summary below.
A farmer's daughter
Born and raised on a farm in Almere, the Netherlands, Roos aspires to continue her family's legacy as a farmer. However, Roos never pictured herself to be an activist on top of that. Last year she bought a share in Rabobank, a prominent financial advisor and stakeholder in the agricultural sector of the Netherlands. As a certificate holder, Roos was given access to the annual certificate holder's meeting. She didn't hesitate to use the opportunity to grab the floor and deliver an impassioned speech.
Roos shared her experiences as an organic farmer in the current system and the difficulties that other farmers face when transitioning their business from large-scale industrialization to nature-inclusive, sustainable companies. Roos argued that the role of central banks and other stakeholders prevent or obstruct the transition due to their financial stakes in the current agricultural system, which support agribusinesses that help disrupt the climate. 'There is no connection between what's decided in board rooms and what happens at a farm. It's an individual system with an emphasis on business models. I am angry, sad, but at the same time, I have hope.'
Her anger gives her the energy to raise her voice and praise excellent initiatives by like-minded farmers who have taken matters into their own hands. Improving the soil and biodiversity and opening up farms as a place to meet and sell local products to everyday people are some examples she points us to.
A fair playing field for all
Roos would like the Dutch government to start a transition in the agricultural sector without closed doors; she hopes all stakeholders' voices are included in decision-making within the agricultural industry and a future where farming is conducted sustainably for the benefit of farmers, financial stakeholders, the Dutch government and everyday people. 'You may have to step out of your comfort zone. And think of how you can contribute to a better and healthier world. You can also join others in groups like Extinction Rebellion as the power of more people helps to make that change. We have seen that so often in the past.'
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Agrarian, Food and Environmental Studies
Roos Saat is in the MA in Development Studies programme of the International Institute of Social Studies where she has chosen to focus on Agrarian, Food and Environmental Studies.
