EUROPEAN FARMWORKERS RALLY IN BRUSSELS-Over rising costs and reforms in the Common Agricultural Policy
Agricultural workers and union representatives from across Europe rallied in Brussels, Belgium urging the European Union (EU) to account for mounting production and employment pressures in its reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Ongoing geopolitical conflicts and rising energy and raw-material prices have driven up agricultural production costs across Europe, adding to pressure on farmers.
The rally’s organizer, the European Federation of Food, Agriculture and Tourism Trade Unions (EFFAT), said the pressures extend beyond costs to workers’ job security and income. Europe has about 12 million agricultural workers, many in seasonal or temporary jobs that can mean unstable employment and low wages.
The union said EU public funds should play a greater role as production costs rise, supporting agriculture while protecting workers’ basic rights.
European countries are also facing pressure to consolidate public finances while meeting other spending needs, including aid to Ukraine, drawing attention to how resources for agriculture are allocated. Rising energy and fertilizer prices continue to add to the strain on agricultural workers.
