Angry farmers in France took to the streets of Paris once again in a new protest on Friday, demanding increased government support and simplified regulations. The demonstration, organized by the Rural Coordination farmers' union, saw dozens of tractors driving peacefully into the French capital, carrying flags and banners advocating for the agricultural sector.
The protest culminated in a striking scene on a bridge over the Seine River, with the iconic Eiffel Tower in the background, before the farmers proceeded to the Vauban plaza in central Paris for a larger gathering. The farmers are expressing their discontent over low earnings, burdensome regulations, and what they perceive as unfair competition from international markets.
Earlier this month, the French government pledged over 400 million euros in response to the farmers' grievances, prompting them to lift roadblocks that had been set up around Paris and other parts of the country. The farmers are part of a broader European movement protesting against EU agricultural policies, bureaucratic hurdles, and challenging business conditions.
One of the key issues raised by the farmers is the impact of EU environmental policies, such as the Green Deal, which they argue restrict their operations and increase the cost of their products compared to imports from outside the EU. The farmers are calling for exemptions for the agricultural sector in free trade agreements to safeguard France's food sovereignty.
The French government is currently working on a new bill aimed at defending the country's agricultural sovereignty, which includes financial aid, tax incentives, and a commitment not to ban pesticides permitted in other European countries. Farmers are urging the government to take concrete actions to support the industry and ensure its sustainability.
French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to attend the Paris Agricultural Fair on Saturday, where he will meet with farmers' unions. However, a planned debate with farmers and environmental groups was canceled due to concerns raised by the major farmer's union, FNSEA, about the lack of conducive conditions for dialogue.
The Paris Agricultural Fair, one of the world's largest farm fairs, is set to open amidst ongoing protests and discussions between farmers and government officials. The agricultural sector remains a focal point of debate in France as stakeholders seek to address the challenges facing farmers and ensure the viability of the industry.
