Social farming and work inclusion: A systematic review of practices, challenges, and policy implications

Social farming integrates agricultural production with social, educational, and therapeutic services. Among its diverse activities, the work inclusion of disadvantaged groups has gained increasing relevance, yet systematic knowledge remains fragmented. A systematic search was conducted in December 2024 across Web of Science and Google Scholar using predefined search strings. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed or review articles (2000-2024, English language) addressing work inclusion through social farming or agriculture. Data were extracted on publication year, geographical setting, study objectives, agricultural context, target groups, and type of production. Of 948 records screened, 51 met eligibility criteria. Studies spanned Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, with Italy emerging as a key contributor. Four thematic areas were identified: (i) models of work inclusion, with farms acting as laboratories of integration for people with disabilities, migrants, NEET youth, and ex-prisoners; (ii) social interaction, highlighting the role of multi-actor networks in sustaining inclusive practices; (iii) temporary work, focusing on migrant labour programmes in Canada, Finland, and New Zealand that reveal both opportunities and vulnerabilities; and (iv) sustainability promotion, stressing integration of social justice and labour rights into environmentally and economically sustainable models. Social farming offers promising pathways for inclusive and sustainable rural development. However, regulatory fragmentation, funding discontinuity, and weak impact assessment limit its long-term potential. Strengthening networks, embedding fairness into value chains, and improving protections for migrant workers are key priorities. Future research should focus on comparative analyses, long-term impacts, and underexplored vulnerable groups.