French farmers boo Macron for lack of support

Upset farmers boo Macron at the Paris Agricultural Fair, expressing their dissatisfaction with the government’s lack of attention

French President Emmanuel Macron faced a hostile reception at the opening of the Paris Agricultural Fair Saturday, with angry farmers expressing their discontent through boos and whistles.

The protesters, who feel neglected by the government, breached security barriers to confront the president as he arrived at the event. 

For months, farmers in France have been rallying for improved living standards, streamlined regulations, and protection against what they perceive as unfair competition from abroad.

Despite the government’s recent offer of financial aid and tax incentives, tensions remain high in the agricultural community. 

Amid a heavy police presence, Macron attempted to engage with the disgruntled farmers, assuring them of forthcoming measures to stabilize farm incomes and support struggling agricultural businesses.

Despite the disruptions, the president eventually inaugurated the fair and engaged with farmers showcasing their produce, though the atmosphere remained tense with intermittent protests. 

The demonstrations in France echo similar discontent among farmers across Europe, who are voicing concerns over EU agricultural policies and bureaucratic hurdles that they argue hinder their competitiveness and drive up production costs compared to imports from outside the EU. 

Source: AFP