Introduction
In recent times, rural protests have emerged in the public debate, led by men and women dedicated to agriculture and livestock. This phenomenon, which has been a constant in Europe, has arrived in Spain with great force. Although it is a complex issue in which various sensitivities and interests intermingle, there is a set of demands on which the majority agree.
Unfair competition and free trade agreements
One of the main claims refers to unfair competition from products from third countries that do not comply with the environmental, phytosanitary and labor regulations of the European Union. These products tend to have much lower prices, which hurts local farmers and ranchers. It is worrying that the European Union encourages this unfair competition through free trade agreements with countries such as Mercosur, Chile, Kenya or Mexico. It is necessary to establish more equitable regulations to guarantee the sustainability of the agricultural and livestock sector.
Non-compliance with the Food Chain Law
Another lawsuit is related to non-compliance with the Food Chain Law, which prohibits the sale of products below their production costs. Large distributors and marketers pressure producers to sell their products at ridiculous prices and then apply excessive profit margins. This seriously harms farmers and ranchers, who are forced to sell their products below their real value. It is necessary to establish stricter controls and more severe sanctions for those who fail to comply with this law.
Excess bureaucracy
Another recurring complaint refers to excess bureaucracy in the agricultural and livestock sector. The procedures to access aid and comply with regulations are complicated and make the management of agricultural and livestock activities difficult. This problem not only affects the countryside, but is a widespread complaint in various sectors. It is necessary to simplify administrative procedures and improve the efficiency of public administration.
The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP)
These protests across Europe highlight the failure of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Although the European Union allocates a large amount of resources to this policy, the primary sector continues to face numerous challenges. It is necessary to review and reform the CAP to promote sustainable agriculture and improve the incomes of small and medium-scale farmers and ranchers.
The role of the extreme right and climate denialism
It is important to note that some of these protests are being encouraged by far-right groups, such as VOX, who use this issue as a political tool against the government. These groups usually oppose the 2030 agenda and environmental policies and the fight against climate change. However, it is essential to understand that climate change has a direct impact on agriculture and livestock, and it is necessary to take measures to mitigate its effects. Furthermore, it is absurd to oppose the 2030 Agenda, which proposes measures to improve agricultural productivity and farmers’ incomes.
Mobilizations in the Canary Islands
In the Canary Islands, mobilizations have also been announced in the agricultural and livestock sector. The main demands focus on stopping selling products at a loss, applying the law effectively and establishing equality clauses in free trade agreements. In addition, concrete measures are requested to address the drought and an increase in funds allocated to the agricultural sector in the Canary Islands is requested.
The commitment of the Cabildo of Gran Canaria
The Cabildo of Gran Canaria has shown its support for the demands of the agricultural and livestock sector. In addition, it has committed to implementing concrete measures, such as an irrigation plan with an investment of more than 100 million euros, the recovery of hydraulic heritage and the promotion of renewable energy in agricultural and livestock farms. The Cabildo has also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the primary sector and environmental conservation policies to achieve a sustainable society.
Conclusions
In short, the protests in the countryside are a manifestation of the concerns and demands of farmers and ranchers. These demands focus on unfair competition, non-compliance with the law, excessive bureaucracy and the need to reform the Common Agricultural Policy. It is important to address these problems effectively to guarantee the sustainability of the agricultural and livestock sector. Furthermore, it is essential to promote collaboration between the primary sector and environmental conservation policies to achieve a more equitable and sustainable society.