Key Takeaways
- President von der Leyen initiates Strategic Dialogue on Agriculture during a crisis and farmer strikes in Europe.
- Diverse stakeholders, such as farmers, industry representatives, and environmental groups, were included in discussions.
- Emphasis on dialogue to address agricultural polarization and seek collaborative solutions.
- Key challenges identified: global market competition, regulatory issues, climate change, and sustainability.
- Goal of the Dialogue: to develop long-term, sustainable strategies for European agriculture.
EU’s Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Agriculture Amidst Farming Crisis
Introduction of a Key Initiative in Challenging Times
President Ursula von der Leyen has inaugurated the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Agriculture in the context of ongoing farmer strikes and a broader crisis within European agriculture. This move, proposed in her State of the Union address, is seen as an attempt to address the growing division in agricultural matters.
Gathering a Spectrum of Stakeholders
The Dialogue aims to bring together various stakeholders from the agricultural sector. This includes representatives from farming, industry, consumer and environmental advocacy, finance, and academic fields. The initiative aims to facilitate the exchange of ideas and perspectives to shape the future direction of European agriculture.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges
President von der Leyen highlighted the urgent need for new solutions to European agriculture’s diverse challenges. These include adapting to a competitive global market, ensuring fair compensation for farmers, securing European food supply, and meeting consumer demands for sustainable products.
Leadership of Professor Strohschneider
Professor Strohschneider’s leadership in the discussions was acknowledged by President von der Leyen, emphasizing the significance of his role in guiding the dialogue through complex agricultural issues.
Reflecting on Resilience and Difficulties
The president remarked on the agricultural sector’s resilience during recent crises, including the pandemic, energy shortages, and food supply challenges. She noted the importance of building on this resilience to address current and future challenges.
Alignment with European Green Deal Objectives
The Dialogue is intended to contribute to the goals of the European Green Deal, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices, technological innovation, and enhancing the competitiveness of the European food system.
A Vision for Agricultural Consensus
The Dialogue aims to reach a consensus on various critical issues facing agriculture in Europe. These include improving farmers’ living standards, ensuring sustainability within agricultural practices, and leveraging technology for agricultural advancement.
Read the full transcript of her speech here.
