European farmers to gather in Brussels for final protest before elections

Farmers from all over Europe are gathering in Brussels on Tuesday, to protest a last time before the start of the elections. Among them will be the Flemish farmers of the General Farmers' Syndicate (ABS), which launched its election memorandum on Monday. Police expect significant traffic disruption in Brussels, mainly around the Heysel plateau in Laeken.

Days before the start of the European elections, which take place from 6 to 9 June, farmers are gathering again in Brussels to protest against European regulations. The majority of farmers will be travelling to Brussels on their tractors early in the morning, around 6.00, via various routes.

At times, the area around Rue de la Loi and the European quarter may also experience traffic disruptions, which could run into the late afternoon. The Brussels Capital/Ixelles police zone advises people to use public transport or other alternatives to the car.

The ABS said that its manifesto addresses not only Belgian governments and the European Commission but also citizens.

“Voters must be aware that it is precisely a strong Flemish agriculture sector that ensures affordable and, above all, safe food for everyone,” it said, adding that the regulatory framework in the sector has “further deteriorated” in the current legislature.

“The policy pursued in recent years needs a shake-up,” it said. “The Green Deal, nature restoration law, protein shift, land acquisition policy, the nitrogen decree... They are all examples of cold-hearted, unsocial policies. A lot of money is involved, but neither farmers, citizens nor nature benefit.” ​
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_{#FlandersNewsService | A previous farmers' protest in Brussels © PHOTO VIRGINE NGUYEN HOANG / HANS LUCAS VIA AFP}