Farming regains prominence
The peasantry, which has been on a war footing for several months, has regained prominence in recent days. In addition to having a dedicated television program (El tros), this weekend he celebrated the annual festival of the rural world, known as Benvinguts a pèges. In addition, the sector has returned to the mobilizations by cutting the border crossings with France in the middle of the campaign for the European elections. Although these two events seem different, they have a common goal: to value farming and give it the recognition it deserves.
The festival of Benvingut a Pagès
Throughout the weekend, the Catalan rural world has opened its doors to celebrate the Benvinguts a Pagès festival. This event, which has already reached its ninth edition, has gathered around 30,000 people who have participated in more than 450 agritourism experiences throughout the territory. The aim of this festival is to raise awareness of the importance of the primary sector in our country, the work of farmers and the origin of the products we consume daily. This year, the festival has had a special meaning, as it has come at a complicated time for the agricultural and livestock sector, which has been severely affected by various difficulties.
The mobilizations of the peasantry
After the protests that collapsed half the country a few months ago, the farmers have returned to the load with unprecedented mobilizations. Yesterday, they cut the border crossings between Spain and France, with the aim of putting pressure on the states and the European Union. These concentrations seek to achieve more food security in relation to imported products, prioritize local products and obtain a tax reduction in the use of energy for food production. These demands arise as a response to the cost increases that the sector has had to bear.
The importance of farming
The Benvinguts a Pagès festival and the farmers’ mobilizations are two ways of claiming the importance of this sector. It is essential that these initiatives go beyond a simple festive day and that consumers opt for local products. In addition, it is necessary that fair political measures are taken in the agricultural field at European level. Only in this way can farming be given the recognition and support it deserves, and it will not have to resort to constantly promoting itself or demonstrating.
Conclusion
The Catalan peasantry is experiencing a moment of revolt and vindication. Both the Benvinguts a Pagès festival and the mobilizations are ways of valuing and valuing this essential sector for our society. It is important that consumers support local products and that institutions implement fair agricultural policies. Only in this way will the peasantry be able to develop and prosper without having to constantly fight for its survival.
