50 Years of the EAAE. From Farm to Food Systems, 1975–2025 50 ans de l'AEEA. De la ferme aux systèmes alimentaires, 1975–2025 50 Jahre EAAE. Vom Bauernhof zum Ernährungssystem, 1975–2025

Abstract

This paper examines the development of the European Association of Agricultural Economists (EAAE) over the past fifty years and its impact on the field of agricultural economics. Established in 1975 to foster international collaboration – particularly within Europe – the EAAE has played a key role in promoting knowledge exchange among agricultural economists. Over time, the organisation has expanded its scope through congresses, seminars and scientific publications, including the European Review of Agricultural Economics (ERAE), EuroChoices and Q Open.

An analysis of congress and seminar themes reveals a shift in research focus from traditional agricultural economics to broader issues such as consumer behaviour, food systems, sustainability and climate change. While globalisation and food safety became dominant topics in the 1990s, the 21st century has seen increasing focus on consumer issues, digital innovations and food system transformations. The EAAE has not only responded to policy developments and scientific innovations but has also actively shaped policy debates and knowledge dissemination.

Beyond academic output, the EAAE has invested in supporting early-career researchers through PhD workshops and mentoring programmes. At the same time, in-person congresses and seminars remain central to the scientific community, despite the rise of digital knowledge-sharing platforms. The findings of this study underscore the continued relevance of the EAAE as a platform for scientific exchange and policy-oriented discussions within agricultural economics.