Why the Peasant Confederation Continues its Mobilization

Why the Peasant Confederation Continues its Mobilization

The Peasant Confederation continues its protests, unlike the FNSEA and the Young Farmers who ceased their blockades after the government’s second round of announcements. The Confederation is targeting supermarkets and purchasing centers, such as Carrefour, Leclerc, and Auchan, and plans to continue until at least February 24.

Despite the government’s belief that it had dissuaded further farmers’ protests, the Peasant Confederation maintains that the government’s announcements don’t provide a long-term solution. According to the Confederation’s general secretary, Véronique Marchesseau, the government addressed an urgent situation but did not initiate the comprehensive reform the Confederation demanded.

The Confederation is seeking progress on the issue of farmers’ income, demanding a ban on sales that do not cover costs. They are targeting places where pressure on prices is exerted, such as supermarkets and purchasing centers.

The Confederation also protests against free trade. It demands that agricultural products are removed from free trade agreements. They oppose the draft agreement between the EU and Mercosur and other free trade agreements, such as the one concluded in July 2022 between the EU and New Zealand.

The Confederation’s continued protests contrast with the position of the FNSEA and the JA, who, according to Marchesseau, conceded before securing price guarantees. Marchesseau believes that environmental and price concerns are not incompatible and farmers should be supported by politicians in leading an ecological transition.

On Monday, the Peasant Confederation’s beekeepers protested, denouncing competition from honeys from other European countries or China. They claim they are unable to sell their honey due to unbeatable prices from these competitors.