Summary:
The farmer’s movement enters a new phase, with blockades set up by the FNSEA and Young Farmers. Eight blockades were planned, including on the A13 highway in Normandy-Paris, a blockade on the A4 in Jossigny, and blockades on the A6 and A15. The Interior Ministry mobilized 15,000 law enforcement officers to prevent tractors from entering Paris and other major cities. Negotiations are ongoing, and new measures are expected to be announced. Farmers are determined to continue the blockades until their demands are met.
Local representatives of the FNSEA are leading the blockades, demanding an end to excessive EU regulations and a simplification of administrative procedures. The Movement has expanded beyond France, leading President Macron to schedule a meeting with the President of the European Commission to discuss support for farmers.
Farmers are frustrated and want to earn a decent living from their work and feel overlooked by society and politically manipulated. Their demands are clear: support for the agriculture sector and respect for their livelihoods. As the blockades continue, tension is rising, and farmers seem willing to maintain their presence on the roads for as long as it takes to get results. Celebrated TV presenter, Karine Le Marchand, has shown support by distributing croissants to the farmers on one of the blocked roads, symbolizing unity and French identity. Despite some progress in negotiations, farmers remain determined to continue their protests until their grievances are satisfactorily addressed.
