Why Europe's farmers are taking their anger to the streets - BBC News

Europe is swept by a wave of protests by farmers, who blame EU policies for their hardship.

1 day agoShareclose panelShare pageCopy linkAbout sharingImage source, REUTERS/Nacho DoceImage caption, Farmers in France blocked several motorways on Friday as they stepped up their challenge to the new prime ministerBy Laura GozziBBC NewsAcross Europe, tens of thousands of farmers have downed tools, mounted their tractors and taken to the streets.

They were already struggling with the cost of living crisis and they have now come out in force to air their grievances, from the European Union's sustainability policies to the effects of the war in Ukraine.

In France, farmers have blocked large stretches of motorways, creating a crisis for new Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who travelled to a farm in the south-west to offer a string of measures in a bid to soothe their frustration.

Some of their concerns, such as burgeoning bureaucracy, have a national character; others point to wider issues, including the increasing cost of farm diesel, late payment of EU subsidies, or competition from imports.

Farmers say it is a fight for survival and they won't stop now.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-68095097?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=KARANGA

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