The French agricultural landscape has gone through a tumultuous year marked by a series of striking demonstrations. Faced with increasingly urgent demands, the sector has highlighted long-standing tensions. From questioning environmental over-transpositions to the need for fair remuneration for farmers, these movements have revealed a crying need for strategic dialogue about the future of agriculture in France. While a return to certain controversial practices, such as the use of certain pesticides, is being discussed, the assessment of current measures appears partial in the eyes of the stakeholders involved.
More than a year after the beginning of the demonstrations in the agricultural sector, the situation remains tense. Although there have been measures like the suspension of the GNR tax and cash advances, a general feeling of dissatisfaction prevails. The bill proposed by Laurent Duplomb, currently being discussed in Parliament, could introduce a relaxation of the environmental standards criticized by farmers. The debate surrounding the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and environmental requirements remains crucial for determining the future of French agriculture and fair remuneration for farmers for their environmental services.
One year after the agricultural crisis
Since the beginning of the farmers’ revolt last year, tensions remain high between farmers and the government. Despite promises to engage in real strategic dialogue about the future of agriculture in France, there is a noticeable weakness in the implementation of concrete measures. While the debate on the common agricultural policy (CAP) remains heated, many are questioning the bans on pesticides and pointing out the issue of over-transpositions.
Controversial legislative decisions
At the beginning of this year, the bill from Senator Laurent Duplomb could radically change the situation, as it would allow a rollback on certain prohibitions exceeding European legislation. On one side, environmental associations are taking a stand, criticizing a possible return of neonicotinoids such as acetamiprid, known for their danger. On the other side, farmers claim that only bold decisions can save a farming sector in crisis due to environmental policies they consider too restrictive. The heated exchanges and the damage to local antennas demonstrate the extent of the divide.
Toward a revision of agricultural remuneration
The Shift Project report published at the end of 2024 highlighted the major blockage of any effective ecological transition for farmers: the issue of income. With a contribution of only 1.6% to GDP, French agriculture is nevertheless facing increasing demands, particularly in terms of reducing carbon emissions. Agricultural policy experts emphasize the need for a priority allocation of decarbonization funds in favor of the agricultural sector to encourage more sustainable practices while ensuring fair remuneration for the environmental services provided.
