Brussels witnessed a significant farmers’ protest today, highlighting concerns over the European Commission’s recent attempts to eliminate environmental regulations within the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The move is perceived as inadequate in addressing farmers’ apprehensions regarding unfair prices and the viability of the agricultural sector’s future. Neglecting rules that safeguard biodiversity not only jeopardizes the long-term sustainability of European farming but also empowers major agri-businesses to further reduce prices through intensified production.
Anu Suono, an agriculture expert at the WWF European Policy Office, criticized the European Commission, stating, “The Commission’s hasty decisions resemble a headless chicken, discarding environmental measures crucial for sustainable farming. They fail to address farmers’ real challenges, including unfair pricing and an outdated Common Agricultural Policy that no longer ensures long-term food supply security, prevents the loss of small family-run farms, and addresses climate and biodiversity emergencies.”
