A migração dos jovens e os desafios de produzir orgânicos em Lidianópolis - PR (2007 a 2022)

Abstract

This research aimed to investigate the migration of rural youth and their dynamics of mobility between urban and rural areas, a phenomenon that has been predominant in the Brazilian context. Specifically, we focused our attention on those young individuals who chose to remain in their rural origins and engage in organic food production in the municipality of Lidianópolis during the period from 2007 to 2022. The study sought to analyze the factors influencing the decision-making of these young people in pursuing alternative paths and the underlying motivations for their choices. To support our analysis, we used official data concerning students who completed their high school education and opted to stay in Lidianópolis. Additionally, we employed oral history as a data collection methodology. The results of this study reveal that the persistence of these rural youth is closely linked to family structures, with a notable influence of female figures, particularly mothers, and the educational background of the young individuals. However, we also identified substantial challenges faced by these youth, which can be categorized into three main areas: the need to implement management practices to ensure the certification of their products as organic, coexisting with the prevalence of conventional agricultural practices, which often involve extensive pesticide use, and the complexity and geographical distance of the organic food production chain."