Reviews of the CAP by the Agricultural Council do not halt farmers' protests

Translated by Valeria D’Alessandro

As evidenced by the first circulating draft, an agreement was reached during the Special Committee on Agriculture within the Agricultural Council to modify the structure of the CAP (Common Agricultural Policy). This marks a fundamental step following the extensive protests across Europe in the past few months.

This resolution does not come as a surprise, given the very delicate moment for the EU. The news follows significant pressure from the 'tractor army' both locally and at a European level. Additionally, these decisions should be analyzed in the context of the current situation leading up to the imminent European elections, scheduled for June.

What has been enacted at an institutional level is the implementation of demands already expressed on various fronts, particularly the call for increased simplification, which would also entail a reduction in administrative costs. Moreover, it would also provide greater flexibility, particularly in terms of meeting certain environmental conditions.

This decision will impact certain aspects related to the PAC strategic plans regulation[1]], as well as the regulation concerning the financing, management, and monitoring of the Common Agricultural Policy (referred to as the "horizontal regulation")[2].

Undoubtedly, the greatest challenge, and also the decisive factor for the future, is to strike a balance between the demands of farmers and the ambitious objectives of the European Institutions. However, this balance is not something to be taken for granted.

A helpful starting point to understand the previously mentioned points is the example of the modification of the standards related to the so-called Good Agricultural and Environmental Conditions (GAEC)[3], previously proposed by the Commission.

These nine standards, also defined by conditionality, currently serve as the cornerstones regulating financial support provided through the CAP, with a particular focus on environmental and climate objectives deemed crucial for meeting the ambitious goals of the European institutions in the coming decades.

Regarding this, specific modifications have been introduced in some of these standards, such as BCAA 6, concerning soil protection, which grants countries greater autonomy and choice. Similarly, BCAA 7, which pertains to crop rotation, while remaining a principle for land protection, may be replaced by diversification in critical areas.

These are just a few initial steps in a review process that could be not only extensive but also time-consuming, involving several stages that will include the Parliament and the Council.

While the matter is being treated with urgency and given the appropriate importance, operational timelines are rather extended, as stated by some European representatives. The conclusion of the entire procedure is estimated for this summer.

One thing remains certain, even by observing images from Brussels: protests show no signs of abating, with farmers organizing various demonstrations and continuing their protests once more. This indicates that there is still a long road ahead on this issue, especially as we approach the European elections[4].

Mondo Internazionale APS - Riproduzione Riservata ® 2023