Young Farmers May Lose Out Under Brussels Budget Plans, Says Hungarian Politician

A Hungarian politician has voiced criticism regarding the European Commission's action plan intended to support young farmers. According to the politician, the plan, while presented as a supportive measure, fails to introduce any novel forms of financial assistance or new support mechanisms for this crucial demographic.

The core of the criticism lies in the perceived inadequacy of the action plan itself. The politician emphasized that the actual situation of farmers is determined not merely by the presence of an action plan, but by the broader trajectory of the EU's agricultural policy and the concrete level of subsidies they can anticipate in the coming years. This suggests a need for more substantial, long-term policy shifts rather than isolated initiatives.

Further concerns were raised about the proposed seven-year budget. The politician highlighted a plan to reduce the agricultural fund by 20%. While acknowledging that member states might be permitted to increase their own national contributions, this potential reduction is seen as a significant blow to the sector. Additionally, the politician objected to certain trade agreements that could lead to a higher proportion of agricultural products from outside the European Union entering the common market. This, it is argued, would further disadvantage European farmers and undermine their competitive standing.