Expert dialogue recommends restructuring of EU agricultural policy

More money for the environment, animal welfare and farmers in need: An expert dialogue initiated by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recommends a significant restructuring of EU agricultural policy. “The current concept must be adapted in order to meet current and future challenges,” says a final report of the so-called strategy dialogue. With hundreds of billions of euros, EU agricultural policy is one of the largest items in the EU budget.

“Hardly any sector is as important for our continent as agriculture,” said Commission President von der Leyen when handing over the report in Brussels. “But we know that our farmers are facing many challenges. Be it due to very tough global competition or the devastating effects of climate change.”

Özdemir recommends recommendations

Specifically, the expert group believes that EU agricultural policy should provide greater support to those farmers who most urgently need support. In addition, environmentally friendly actions should be more highly rewarded, as should measures that benefit employees and animal welfare. In addition, better framework conditions should be created for rural areas that are worth living in. The recommendations of the representatives from agriculture, retail, science and civil society are not legally binding.

Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir welcomed the proposals. “Farmers rightly expect attractive subsidies so that their commitment to the environment, species protection, climate and animal welfare also pays off financially,” said the Green politician.

Experts: Time for change is now

The group began its work in January with the aim of jointly developing solutions for the future of the EU’s agricultural and food systems. Almost 30 representatives, including those from the agricultural and food sector and academia, met several times. They stressed that the time for change is now. It also said: “Switching to a balanced, healthier and more sustainable diet is essential for a successful transition.”

Von der Leyen had already announced the strategy dialogue in September 2023. Farmers from various EU countries – including Germany – had repeatedly demonstrated against EU environmental regulations, for example. In Germany, the protests are primarily directed against cuts by the federal government, but environmental regulations from Brussels are repeatedly criticized by farmers. The protests in Europe have led to violence on the streets.

Agriculture was also one of the major topics during the European election campaign. The re-elected Commission President von der Leyen had promised to present a vision for agriculture and food in the first 100 days of her new term in office. However, she still has to put together her team, so it is unclear who will be the future EU Agriculture Commissioner.

© dpa-infocom, dpa:240904-930-222713/1

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