European unions are planning a big strike on Thursday, December 18, the day of , in view of the imminent signing of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement.
Farmers: The agreement is a historical mistake, the funding of the CAP is insufficient
According to organizers, around 10,000 farmers from all member states are expected to take part, sending a “united and strong message” against European agricultural policy and the agreement. Farmers denounce, on the one hand, the proposals for the Common Agricultural Policy after 2027, which they describe as insufficiently funded, and, on the other, the agreement with the Mercosur countries (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay), which they consider a “historic mistake” and harmful to the European agricultural sector and the EU’s food security. At the same time, they call for simpler regulations and greater legal security for their profession. The demonstration will culminate with a march to the European Parliament, excluding the city.
The move comes at a critical juncture, as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to attend the Mercosur Summit on December 20 in Brazil to sign the deal, provided it receives the green light from the EU Council with a qualified majority.
Objections to the agreement by member states
However, several member states express objections or reservations. Poland, Hungary and Austria have already said they will vote against, while Belgium is temporarily neutral due to internal differences between federal and regional authorities. France maintains the strongest reservations towards the agreement, with President Emmanuel Macron having asked the President of the European Commission to postpone its examination and signature. Paris points to the need for additional guarantees regarding the protection of the agricultural sector and “sensitive” products. Italy’s position remains unclear, given the potential trade benefits for its exports, and is seen as crucial to achieving a qualified majority of member states.
The Danish Presidency of the Council of the EU wants the vote to be held before December 20 so that the signature can be made at the Mercosur Summit. However, he is not expected to proceed with the voting process if he knows that the result will not be favorable.
Enhanced protection measures from the EC
At the same time, the European Parliament today approved enhanced protection measures for European farmers, providing for stricter monitoring of “sensitive” products such as beef, poultry and sugar, and the possibility of reinstating tariffs in the event of serious market imbalances. Despite these measures, reactions remain strong, while the European Commission insists on the ambition to sign the agreement before the end of the year. This signing “is of critical economic, diplomatic and geopolitical importance,” the Commission’s trade spokesman, Olof Zyl, said yesterday.
The Mercosur deal may be discussed at a summit of European leaders, although it is not officially on the agenda, according to a European official.
