During the Plenary session held today in Strasbourg, MEPs voted in favour of the own-initiative report of Isabel Carvalhais (S&D, PT) regarding Generational Renewal in agriculture. Generational renewal is an increasingly pressing topic, and one that will condition all other agricultural evolutions, especially the future of rural areas. Therefore, Copa and Cogeca welcome any initiative on this matter at EU level and particularly this proactive report.
To propose the right solutions, you need a clear diagnosis. The report prepared by MEP Carvalhais provides a hard-hitting assessment of the current situation, as well as the current and future consequences if the situation is not reversed for European agriculture. For young farmers to continue to work in agriculture and contribute to sustainable rural areas, a decent income, less complicated farm acquisition, less administrative burdens, and a balanced lifestyle are necessary – a take that the report reflects on well.
In terms of European solutions, several avenues are being explored with the aim to invite all stakeholders to “make generational renewal in agriculture a strategic priority”. First, MEPs rightly address the question of access to land, calling on Member States to develop strategies and support land banks. Emphasis is also placed on how to increase intergenerational collaboration, a key aspect in the success of many takeover projects.
The report also rightly underlines that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) has been important in supporting generational renewal; due to this being one of its priorities. In the same way, MEPs acknowledged the role that cooperatives and farmers’ organisations could play in helping young farmers to overcome barriers to installation, providing guidance services and facilitating their integration into the value chain.
Copa and Cogeca also welcome the special attention given to the more specific difficulties still all too often encountered by young women farmers, calling the European Commission to come forward with a dedicated communication analysing and advocating best practices.
Finally, the report makes several recommendations supported by Copa and Cogeca, aimed at infrastructures in rural areas, improving networks and communications around opportunities in the farming sector. “Farming is not just a job, it’s a way of life” as the report says, and it must become a source of attraction for young people from both agricultural and non-agricultural backgrounds.
Fonte: Copa Cogeca
