Farmers disagree over European restrictions on agricultural imports and the passive stance of the Polish government. The Farmers’ Union has announced a nationwide general strike starting February 9. They intend to block border crossings with Ukraine and major roads.
Key grievances include the extension of the EU trade agreement with Ukraine until June 2025, which farmers believe jeopardizes their livelihoods due to an influx of products from international agroholding companies. The obligation for landowners with over 10 hectares to leave 4 percent of land fallow is another contentious issue, impacting productivity and profitability.
The farmers demand clarity from the Polish government on agricultural production, profitability, processing reconstruction, and domestic trade. Emphasizing the vital role of family farms in food security, they vow to fight until the end.
The protests call for solidarity among the farming community, with temporary roadblocks planned from February 9 to March 10, 2024.
Read more: Polish Farmers Gear Up for Border Blockade Due to EU Restrictions and Government Passivity