Role of Local Context in the Success of Farmer Collectives: A Review

Farmer collective (FC) history in developing countries is a mixed one. Different models of FC are adopted, but many farmers have not been part of collectives, and the established collectives have been facing various challenges such as marginalization of weak, external interference and poor competitiveness. This review focuses on the understanding the role of various factors influencing the FC performance and success. The article critically examines the evidence provided regarding the socio-economic-environmental characteristics of the local area, collective characteristics, performance characteristics and externalities in determining FC success. The main focus is on relevance of a local system in determining FC success. The article concludes that while FC success is mixed, incorporation of local system characteristics during the FC establishment and functioning could ensure FC success. However, it is important that external agents need to co-align their interests with the local context such that FC becomes successful both for local system intrinsic goals and national development goals.