Prime minister Alexander De Croo has called on protesting farmers to end their blockades, following a week of protests around the country, including in the European district of Brussels.
Following a day of large-scale protests in Brussels and several other places in the country, farmers are continuing their protest actions today, including demonstrations at the border crossing with the Netherlands and in the port of Zeebrugge. Prime minister Alexander De Croo, of Flemish liberal party Open VLD, has called on them to end their actions.
A large element of farmers’ discontent relates to environmental regulations, including the recent EU Nature Restoration Law and the Flemish government’s agreement on nitrogen emissions. They are also protesting against what they consider excessive administration and low prices for their produce.
De Croo told Radio 1 there had been discussions with delegations of farmers at federal and European levels. There will be a proposal on the administrative burden on 26 February, with further work to be done on pricing in the coming weeks.
“It’s not that we are only now taking action, but I do understand that a young farmer says: this sustainability transition, I want to be part of it – I don’t know a farmer who is not a lover of nature, because they live off nature – but give me legal certainty and a revenue model that allows me to do it,” he said.
“That pent-up anger has now come out and for a lot of their concerns – which are legitimate – we are trying to find a solution.”
Earlier this week, the EU announced a delay in rules that would oblige farmers to set aside 4% of their land to encourage biodiversity and soil health.
I do think now is the time to give up the blockades
“We have received the signal at the federal level and at the European level. I see that the Flemish government is doing the same,” De Croo said. “That is a commitment from my side and from European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen to continue working with them in the coming weeks. I do think now is the time to give up the blockades.”
Several protests by farmers are also expected on Friday, blockading roads, stores and distribution centres. The three border crossings with the Netherlands in Zandvliet, Meer and Postel have been closed in both directions since Thursday evening. Talks are taking place this morning between farmers and the Flemish government.