Columns of farmers attempted to block roads around Paris on Sunday, January 5, protesting what they call “unfair competition from abroad” and “excessive regulation.”
Journalists noted that French farmers spearheaded Europe-wide demonstrations at the start of 2024, although these protests subsided later in the year. However, momentum reignited last month following the announcement of a preliminary free trade deal between the EU and MERCOSUR countries, sparking renewed opposition from French agricultural workers.
On January 5, farmers sought to block access to the capital. In response, police in Paris and Val-de-Marne issued bans on “all unauthorized gatherings” in central Paris and around the Rungis market, effective from 6:00 PM on January 5 until noon on January 6.
Television reports highlighted ongoing dissatisfaction among farmers regarding policies they argue harm their livelihoods.
“They do not understand the level of suffering and hardship farmers are currently experiencing,” said Amélie Rebier, vice president of the agricultural union Coordination Rurale.
Union representatives are scheduled to meet with French Prime Minister François Bayrou on January 13 to address their grievances.
