BRUSSELS
Around 200 farmers from various EU countries gathered in front of the European Parliament in Brussels to protest possible cuts to agricultural subsidies in the EU's new long-term budget.
The demonstration, organized by farmer unions, took place as the European Commission met to finalize the draft of the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), which is expected to be unveiled on Wednesday.
Carrying banners reading "Don't abandon agriculture" and waving national and agricultural union flags, the protesters marched to the European Commission headquarters.
They voiced frustration with the EU's agricultural policies and concerns over potential funding cuts.
Currently, about one-third of the EU budget goes to agricultural subsidies.
Farmers worry that in the new budget, the commission may merge key funding streams, potentially leading to reduced support for farming.
In recent years, farmer protests across Europe have been fueled by environmental regulations, high fuel and fertilizer costs, and competition from cheaper imports, particularly from Ukraine and Russia.