On October 21, an unexpected farmers’ protest took place in front of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. It was organized by the European farmers’ organizations Copa-Cogeca, FNSEA, FDSEA67, and Jeunes Agriculteurs (JA) to express their opposition to the European Commission’s proposed changes to the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform.
Around 200 farmers from across Europe gathered for the protest, arriving with 40 tractors. This highly visual and determined action clearly demonstrated their position: the Commission’s plans pose a serious threat to Europe’s food security, rural development, and the future of agriculture.
Strong criticism of the Commission’s proposals
Farmers strongly condemned the Commission’s intention to abolish the two-pillar structure of the CAP and integrate it into a single general fund. According to the protesters, such a move would be extremely dangerous, leading to:
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the loss of solidarity among Member States,
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distortion of the single market,
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increased administrative burden,
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loss of predictability for farmers,
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and a direct threat to rural competitiveness and food security.
They also opposed the proposed reduction of the agricultural budget, which would allocate less than 15% of total EU expenditure to the sector. Protesters argued that this figure is completely inconsistent with the current economic, social, geopolitical, and climate challenges.
Members of the European Parliament sided with farmers
About 50 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from various political groups joined the protest, expressing their support for a strong, united, and adequately funded CAP.
This growing political opposition to the Commission’s proposals shows that many MEPs disagree with reforms that would undermine the strategic importance of agriculture in Europe.
A symbolic red line – a warning to European institutions
During the protest, a 6-meter-long red line was drawn in front of the European Parliament – a symbolic gesture representing a “crossed line.”
With this act, farmers reinforced their central message: “Our food supply is at risk. MEPs – do not accept the unacceptable!”
A call for reasonable solutions
The protesters called on Members of the European Parliament and EU Member States to reject the harmful proposals that would weaken the Common Agricultural Policy.
They emphasized that there is an alternative path – one that would:
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respect the unique nature of the CAP,
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preserve its two-pillar structure,
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ensure a stable and inflation-resistant budget,
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and remain faithful to the provisions of the EU Treaties.
This protest in Strasbourg stands as clear evidence that European farmers are determined to be heard and that the CAP must be safeguarded as a strategic, sustainable, and vital policy for Europe’s future.