The “strategic dialogue” on the future of the agricultural sector, which aims to find new solutions and achieve a common vision for the future of the agriculture and food sector in the EU, was launched today in Brussels, following an initiative by the European Commission. until the summer of 2024.

The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, had promised to start this dialogue during her State of the Union speech last September. But the start of the dialogue on the future of agriculture coincides with the period when agricultural mobilizations are spreading in various EU countries (Germany, Poland, Romania, France, Italy), mainly targeting the provisions of the EU Green Deal to combat climate change. change.

The strategic dialogue will bring together key stakeholders from across the agri-food chain, including farmers, cooperatives, agri-food businesses and rural communities, as well as non-governmental organizations and civil society representatives, financial institutions and universities . The Council and the European Parliament will also participate in the process.

During the first half of 2024, a series of thematic meetings will be organized to address the challenges raised by participants in this strategic dialogue on the future of agriculture. For example, it will look at fair living standards for farmers and rural communities, supporting agriculture within ecosystem boundaries, seizing the huge opportunities offered by knowledge and technological innovation, and promoting a prosperous future for the food system. of the EU in a competitive world. The conclusions, expected by the end of the summer, will pave the way for the next Commission and the development of the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) starting in 2028.

The chairman of the closed-door talks, German academic Peter Strochschneider, who led a similar commission in Germany, stressed that the dialogue should focus on finding a balance between economic, ecological and social interests and not at points of tension.

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, today opened the first meeting of this forum on the future of agriculture, stressing the following: “It is time for a new consensus on food and agriculture between farmers, rural communities and all other players in the EU agri-food chain. EU farmers and the food industry provide our citizens with healthy, high-quality food and make a key contribution to our economy, especially in rural areas. They are also making huge efforts to contribute to our collective green and digital transition. But at the same time, they face a wide range of challenges, from climate change to inflation to volatile market effects. With this strategic dialogue, we are creating a forum to achieve a clear vision for the future, for the benefit of all.”