Unlocking dialogue between dairy farmers and citizens

This practice abstract explores how dialogue between dairy farmers and citizens can improve understanding and acceptance of livestock farming. Drawing on research from the Coccinelle innovation hub in the upland Massif Central region of France, farmers and citizens were engaged in a quiz designed to capture their perceptions of upland dairy farming practices. Both groups broadly agreed on positive practices, particularly rearing calves with their mother, straw‑bedded winter housing, access to shaded grazing, and positive human–animal relationships. However, differences emerged around practices such as artificial insemination and the use of digital technologies for animal monitoring, with age influencing attitudes more than gender. By identifying practices perceived negatively by citizens, the study highlights opportunities for targeted communication and co‑design, helping the livestock sector respond to societal expectations and strengthen trust between farmers and the public.