A first gathering is planned for this Friday, November 8 at 7:30 p.m. in front of the Annecy prefecture.
The anger of farmers does not subside in Haute-Savoie. As the European Union prepares to sign a controversial trade agreement with Mercosur, farmers are organizing a new mobilization this Friday in Annecy.
Alert public authorities
Ten months after significant blockages throughout France, Haute-Savoie farmers are returning to the forefront. This Friday evening, at 7:30 p.m. a demonstration is planned in front of the Annecy prefecture. Objective ? Denounce the potential effects of the trade agreement between the EU and Mercosur. Supported by Rural Coordination, this action aims to alert public authorities.
A peaceful demonstration
Nearly fifty demonstrators and several tractors are expected for a symbolic barbecue. This gathering is intended to be a clear but peaceful message to the authorities, described by the union as a “first warning”. A mobilization reminiscent of the blockages of last January, notably that of the Allonzier-la-Caille toll, initiated by this same union to denounce political decisions deemed harmful to local agriculture.
Why do farmers oppose the EU-Mercosur agreement?
The agreement between the European Union and Mercosur, under discussion for several years, provides for an opening of markets between Europe and the countries of South America. Farmers fear that this agreement will lead to an increase in imports of agricultural products, particularly meat, at prices unfavorable for European producers. They also fear increased competition with products with less strict environmental and health standards. In Haute-Savoie, support for the movement is strong, because many farms fear for their future if this agreement is signed.
Any prospects for future action?
This Friday's symbolic barbecue could only be the beginning of a broader mobilization. Rural Coordination has already announced that it will not hesitate to launch more substantial actions if the government does not take measures to protect French farmers from the impacts of the agreement with Mercosur.
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