French Farmers Defy Roadblocks, March Toward Paris
French farmers have taken to the streets, defying roadblocks and working in frigid temperatures to protest against policies threatening their livelihoods. In a determined effort to “save French agriculture,” they have erected numerous barricades around Toulouse, mobilizing tractors, manure, and straw bales. Meanwhile, more farmers are en route to Paris, raising concerns over grain prices and increased competition from Latin American countries.
Protests Erupt Surrounding Toulouse
On Wednesday, farmers set up around ten blockades on major roads in the Sud-Ouest region, particularly near Toulouse. The protests are a response to significant issues in agriculture, including the ongoing epizootic disease known as bovine dermatose necrotizante (DNC) and the skyrocketing prices of fertilizers.
Lionel Candelon, president of the Gers agricultural chamber and a member of the Coordination rurale (CR) leadership, stated that the protests will continue until satisfactory responses are received from Paris and Brussels. The protests coincide with a meeting of agricultural ministers from 27 European countries in Brussels, set to address farmers’ grievances ahead of an anticipated agreement with Mercosur scheduled for January 12.
Farmers Forcefully Making Their Point
Amidst the protests, reports emerged of at least four tractors breaking through a police blockade in the Yvelines area, heading towards Paris. Bertrand Venteau, the president of CR, remarked on the heavy police presence, despite assurances that the demonstrations were peaceful. He noted that their determination to reach symbolic locations in Paris to voice their concerns remains intact.
A Call for Attention
Pierre Solana, a 37-year-old farmer from Gers, described the situation as a “war of attrition,” emphasizing their resolve to be heard. He expressed disappointment over the lack of response from officials, following promises made by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to meet with agricultural representatives this week. Arnaud Rousseau, head of FNSEA, has criticized the EU-Mercosur agreement, asserting it does not serve the interests of European farmers.
Authorities Respond to Protests
The prefect of Occitanie and Haute-Garonne, Pierre-André Durand, implemented several prohibitions to prevent public disorder, a move that sparked outrage among protesters. Eric Massou, a CR representative, voiced his frustrations against the law enforcement actions that impeded their intended peaceful demonstration.
In response to the actions, some farmers dumped manure onto highways and set fires, leading to significant traffic disruptions. Farmers on the A64 have maintained their blockade since December, with sentiments running high among agricultural workers who feel unheard and neglected by policymakers.
The Impact of Bovine Dermatose Necrotizante
As part of the escalating tension, organizers announced that due to DNC, cattle would notably be absent from the upcoming Salon de l’Agriculture. They hope for limited participation from bovines, drawing attention to the severe effects of the epidemic on the agricultural sector.
Farmers across the region are uniting, frustrated by unmet promises and demanding meaningful dialogue from authorities, illustrating a collective call to protect the future of agriculture in France.
