On December 18, 10,000 farmers are expected in Brussels to denounce the EU’s growing ‘smoke-and-mirrors’ approach to agriculture
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Copa Cogeca | 21 November 2025
On December 18, 10,000 farmers are expected in Brussels to denounce the EU’s growing ‘smoke-and-mirrors’ approach to agriculture
Since 2024, farmers have consistently warned the EU about CAP and budget reforms, excessive regulation that restricts agricultural initiative, and the drive to conclude unacceptable trade deals such as with Mercosur. Now, at the end of 2025, expectations remain unmet. The Commission’s determination to push ahead regardless would be a historic mistake for the European project, its farmers, and consumers alike.
Agriculture and food security are cornerstones of Europe’s security and sovereignty. As farming communities remain committed supporters of the European ideal, they cannot stay silent while such a strategic error unfolds.
Despite high-level speeches presenting agriculture as a strategic sector, the Commission’s actions and proposals tell a different story: They signal a retreat from the EU’s common farming ambitions. The widening gap between words and deeds, and the determination to move forward behind a political smoke screen, despite the consequences for rural families, communities, and consumers, has become unbearable. European agriculture is approaching a tipping point.
As such, on December 18 in Brussels, Copa and Cogeca are calling for a pan-European day of protest, just hours before President von der Leyen departs for Brazil to sign the Mercosur deal and while EU heads of state and government meet for a key session of the European Council on the future EU budget. Around forty farming organisations from across Europe have already confirmed their participation. We are expecting 10,000 farmers to deliver a strong and united message to the Commission.
We can no longer settle for rhetoric. We need bold, clear and tangible solutions for our farms and agri-cooperatives, namely:
• A strong, common and well-funded CAP post-2027
• Fair and transparent trade rules that protect EU standards and the most sensitive sectors
• Real simplification, better regulation and legal certainty
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About us - Copa and Cogeca are the united voice of farmers and agri-cooperatives in the EU. Together, we ensure that EU agriculture is sustainable, innovative and competitive, while guaranteeing food security for 500 million people throughout Europe. >>> More information www.copa-cogeca.eu
