This Wednesday, November 20, the surroundings of the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium took an unexpected turn. As ASSE prepared for its next match, another large-scale gathering took place: angry farmers converged in front of the Chaudron before heading on tractors towards the Saint-Étienne prefecture. A strong mobilization, symbolizing a cry of alarm in the face of the challenges shaking the agricultural world.
Geoffroy-Guichard as a gathering place
Organized by the FNSEA and the Young Farmers (JA), this action is part of a series of national events beginning on November 17. The objective is to denounce the free trade agreement between the European Union and Mercosur. This treaty, perceived as a threat to French agriculture, would allow the massive importation of South American agricultural products. The latter are often low-cost and subject to much less strict standards than those imposed in Europe.
Throughout France, “85 demonstration points” were claimed at the start of the week. The actions vary: filter dams, deposits of earth on the roads, crosses symbolizing the “death” of local agriculture, and rallies in front of the prefectures. All this, without trying to disturb motorists, with the aim of raising awareness rather than obstruction.
In Saint-Étienne, the symbolism is strong. By choosing the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard as a starting point, the farmers are associating themselves with an emblematic place in the city. By borrowing their tractors to reach the prefecture, they show the determination of the rural world to make themselves heard.
A dark year for agriculture
Behind this opposition to Mercosur lies a particularly trying year 2024 for farmers. Disastrous harvests, extreme climatic episodes, and three epidemics affecting herds have had a profound impact on the profession. Added to this are growing economic challenges: competition with cheaper imported products, sometimes produced in conditions that do not respect the environment or European health standards.
« The harvests were very bad, it will make a hole in the cash flow. On top of that, there is Mercosur. We rack our brains to make quality products and they bring us products with GMOs, spiked with hormones…”
