Strengthening European Agriculture: The Warsaw Declaration’s Call to Action
A coalition of farmers’ organizations across the European Union is expressing mounting concern over policies perceived to undermine the agricultural sector. United under the Warsaw Declaration and accompanied by Poland’s vice-premier, these organizations assert, “Food security and agricultural strategic autonomy are non-negotiable,” as emphasized by Gert Jan Oplaat of AVEC, representing poultry processors.
Advocating for a Robust Agricultural Policy
The affiliated organizations are demanding enhancements to agricultural policy while simultaneously opposing the controversial EU-Mercosur trade deal. Central to their stance is the preservation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) as a core component of EU policy, supported by a dedicated budget responsive to contemporary agricultural challenges.
They are urging EU institutions to bolster market management through adequate and well-functioning risk management tools and safety nets. Additionally, they call for an immediate halt to the ratification of the EU-Mercosur agreement in its current format, proposing actionable steps to protect European farmers and ensure fair international trade practices based on reciprocity, equal production standards, and environmental protections.
Concerns for the Future of European Agriculture
At the heart of their message is a deep apprehension regarding current policy initiatives that threaten the fundamentals of European agriculture, including strategic autonomy, consumer safety, and environmental protection. The coalition firmly opposes any moves to weaken the CAP, advocating for it to remain a strong and ambitious policy with a dedicated budget to tackle pressing challenges.
Food Security: A Critical Issue
The ongoing trend of increasing reliance on agricultural imports raises significant concerns, particularly in light of geopolitical uncertainty and conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine. This dependence potentially jeopardizes the integrity of European agriculture, disrupts supply chains, and exacerbates global instability—contrary to the approaches being adopted by other global players focused on fortifying their domestic agricultural sectors.
A Call for Fair Standards
Furthermore, farmers’ organizations argue that it is contradictory for the European Commission to impose stringent environmental standards on domestic farmers while permitting food imports that do not meet the same criteria. A reevaluation of European trade policy is essential to address these disparities and acknowledge the strategic nature of food production, especially in today’s radically altered trade landscape.
Looking Ahead
In conclusion, the collective voices of agricultural organizations underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and coherent measures that ensure the future of European agriculture and food security. As they navigate this complex landscape, the preservation of strategic autonomy will be crucial for safeguarding not only the agricultural sector but also the broader economic welfare of Europe.
