Greek Farm Households: Income inequality, poverty and distributional impact of farm income

Abstract

This paper examines the incidence of income inequality and poverty, and the impact of farm income on inequality. A detailed typology of farm households (FHs) is developed, based on Household Budget Survey micro-data. Research findings reveal enormous variations among households with respect to income inequality and poverty. While Marginal- and Pluriactive- FHs do not seem to have an income problem, this is not the case for Farm Households. Poverty is a widespread phenomenon among Retired FHs. Farm income and non-farm income generate a combined stabilization effect, mitigating the overall inequality within households. Policy implications of these findings are discussed in the context of welfare aspects of agricultural policy.farm households, income inequality, poverty, distributional impact