Family farming is the predominant business model in European agriculture. The key challenges faced by family farms are considered in this briefing note and the effectiveness of policy measures in the EU, both the current measures and those agreed for the 2014 to 2020 period, in tackling these challenges is examined. The main conclusions are that Pillar I policies have transferred substantial funds to family farms and have ensured the survival of many farms that would have otherwise gone out of business. However, the more targeted policies contained in Pillar II have been, and continue to be, more effective in addressing the specific challenges facing Europe’s family farms.