With EU member states having recently backed a controversial trade deal known as Mercosur, which is going to enable free trade between the EU and several Latin American countries, this has sparked farmer protests across Europe. Protesters were seen driving tractors and taking to the streets to block main roads in European capitals, such as Paris, Brussels, and Warsaw, in order to voice their opposition.
The proposed deal is still pending approval from the European Parliament, with the head of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, set to travel to Paraguay on January 17 to sign the agreement.
Farmer groups believe the Mercosur agreement would put them at a disadvantage thanks to cheaper imports, affecting their ability to make a living.
Indeed, in the past few years farmers have been significantly affected by changing policies, global trade, and the ongoing issue of climate change. For example, at the start of 2024, European farmers made headlines by blocking roads and dumping manure in dramatic protests against a mix of tighter climate rules, shrinking profits, and tough trade competition.
Farmers across Europe are now working longer hours for less pay, and they’re not happy about it. The growing divide between rural and urban life is fueling resentment, as many feel left behind in a system that no longer works for them.
From shrinking incomes to rising tensions, click through this gallery to explore the challenges and hopes driving Europe’s farmers today.