Greek farmers demonstrate against agricultural policy in Athens

It was the highlight of the demonstrations against Greece’s agricultural policy so far: thousands of farmers marched with tractors in front of the parliament in Athens. They criticized increased costs and called for more subsidies and tax cuts.

In Greece, thousands of farmers made their way to Athens to demonstrate in front of parliament against the agricultural policy of the government and the European Union. The protests, which have been going on for weeks, culminated in today’s blockade of the city center.

As in other European countries, farmers complain about their difficult economic situation: sharply increased prices for fuel and fertilizer, a high tax burden and bureaucratic hurdles are causing dissatisfaction.

Greece’s farmers dissatisfied with agricultural policy

“Without us you have nothing to eat!” chanted some of the farmers who had come to the capital in convoys of tractors and buses. In the past few weeks, as in other European countries, they had blocked highways.

Greek farmers demanded lower taxes, discounts on electricity and fuel and stricter import controls. The Greek government replied that they had already made concessions on electricity and diesel prices. She had announced that she would reduce the energy costs of agricultural businesses and reduce the VAT on fertilizer and animal feed from 13 to six percent.

Furthermore, the Greek government has “nothing left to give,” said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in an interview with Star broadcaster on Monday. Mitsotakis went on to say that he understood why the farmers wanted to hold a “symbolic” rally in the middle of Athens, of all places, and suspected that this was a consciously coordinated action with other European capitals.

EU environmental regulations put a strain on farmers

The protests are also directed against new EU environmental regulations. Specifically, it is about the “Green Deal”, which, according to the EU Commission, aims to create the transition to a modern, environmentally friendly and competitive economy. This is to be achieved by no longer emitting net greenhouse gases by 2050, linking growth to the use of resources and limiting the use of chemicals.

The latest farmers’ protest is considered the high point of the actions in Greece to date. Farmers from all parts of the country arrived on Monday with tractors and buses. They even came by ferry from the distant island of Crete. They were also joined in the demonstration by other citizens, associations and groups. According to surveys, 70 percent of people understand the protest. The rallies are expected to continue until at least Wednesday.