Why are farmers protesting in Europe?
Why in news
In recent weeks, agriculture has emerged as a hotbed of rebellion across Europe. From Spain to Poland, Germany to Greece, farmers are grappling with the challenges posed by climate change and disruptions in supply chains due to war. This has resulted in widespread dissatisfaction with governments among those who work the land.
Causes
The immediate triggers of the current agricultural crisis are war, weather, and green regulations. Russia's invasion has disrupted supply chains, leading to increased energy costs and transportation levies. Cheaper imports from neighboring Ukraine have trickled in as the bloc eased rules. Additionally, ongoing trade negotiations with the South American MERCOSUR block would result in competition with imports from Chile, Argentina, and Australia. According to a Politico analysis between 2022 and 2023, prices paid to farmers decreased by more than 10% across 11 EU countries. Farmers are also struggling with climate change as regular water shortages, erratic weather patterns, droughts and soil erosion lay waste to crops. In Greece alone wildfires have destroyed up to 20% of annual farm revenue.
Introducing the European Green Deal, an accord aimed at transitioning away from fossil fuels and reducing global emissions by 43% before 2030. Recent data indicates that agriculture is responsible for a staggering 11% of collective greenhouse gas emissions, surpassing the average of 10% among OECD nations. However, progress has been sluggish in this regard. In line with their commitment to becoming climate-neutral by 2050, the European Union proposed the Green Deal and implemented changes to their Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which had previously provided subsidies to farmers as economic relief. The revised CAP mandates that farmers reduce fertilizer usage by no less than 20%, or maintain at least 4% of their land fallow if they wish to continue receiving EU aid.
What actions have governments taken thus far?
The European Commission suggested on January 31st that they restrict the influx of inexpensive Ukrainian imports and relaxed certain environmental regulations, including exemptions for farmers from maintaining fallow land. Portugal has announced an aid package totaling €500 million, which includes a 55% reduction in diesel fuel taxes and financial assistance to promote organic farming. Furthermore, French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed suspending the South American trade agreement should grievances persist.
Conclusion
There is an urgent requirement to strike a balance between the interests of farmers and environmental concerns.
Comments
Post a Comment