International Farming Systems Association

The International Farming Systems Association (IFSA) has its origins in Farming Systems Research which had evolved to address smallholder development in the tropics. The main activity of the IFSA Europe Group is the organisation of the bi-annual European Symposium. These symposia are a platform for dialogue between scientists and practitioners from a wide range of theoretical background and methodological focus. Although predominantly focusing on European farming systems, non-European participation is encouraged as this adds contrasts and comparisons of mutual benefit and helps to ensure scientific rigour and quality. the European IFSA Symposia thus regularly welcomes e.g. US and Australian delegates, and debates many issues related to research work in countries of the South.