The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the European vision of agriculture need to be overhauled. Among other things, the system of subsidies needs to be addressed. In particular, small mixed farms, young farmers, lateral entrants and areas where agriculture is faced with natural limitations should receive support from the CAP.
This is stated in the final report of the so-called Strategic Dialogue on Agriculture in the EU, which was presented today to Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission. In the report 'A Shared Perspective for Agriculture and Food in Europe', the 29 participants of the Dialogue give their views on agriculture, which the European Commission can take into account.
The authors of the report seem to be in two minds. "Food and agricultural production play a strategic role in the new geopolitical context as an essential part of European security", it says. That theme, together with a decent standard of living for farmers, has actually been central since the start of the CAP, more than 60 years ago. On the other hand, there is a lot of emphasis on making agriculture more sustainable, the environment and the social aspects of agriculture, such as a liveable countryside and the role of young people in the sector.
Preparing CAP for expansion
Current policies need to be adapted to current and future challenges, and to accelerate the transition to sustainable, competitive and profitable agriculture. "This is also essential to make the CAP fit for purpose in the context of EU enlargement," the report says. The CAP should focus on three objectives: socio-economic support to farmers who need it most, encouraging desirable agricultural practices in terms of the environment and animal welfare, and creating favourable conditions for rural areas.
Targeted support is needed to prevent farmers from leaving their farms and to provide them with a decent income. In particular, small mixed farms, young farmers, lateral entrants and areas with natural constraints in agriculture should receive support from the CAP.
Sustainability is the magic word
Sustainability is also discussed extensively in the report. A bit lame perhaps, but the word 'sustainable' appears 175 times in the 110-page report, 'transition' 135 times, while 'income' is mentioned 35 times. Sustainability means, among other things, that the sector remains within the planetary boundaries, protects the environment and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Incidentally, this is not only the task of the agricultural sector. According to the report, sustainability is a task for the entire chain. The consumer also has a role, and member states must 'make the healthy and sustainable alternative the easy choice'. The trend towards fewer animal and more plant-based products must be stimulated better.
Europe is not an island. The European Commission should align trade policy with sustainability goals. "The European Commission should better recognise the strategic relevance of agriculture and food products in trade negotiations." The current negotiation strategy and the way in which the impact of a free trade agreement is assessed need to be reviewed. Furthermore, strong leadership is needed in the reform of the international trade framework.