Farmers ready to shake up Germany with unprecedented actions
Strong opposition from the farming community has emerged in response to the government's plans to scrap tax advantages. With more than a thousand farmers joining the fray, their rally in Berlin was filled with thunderous boos for Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir. Farmers' President Joachim Rukwied left no room for ambiguity, declaring this a "war declaration." If the government failed to withdraw its contentious proposals, farmers vowed to make January a month filled with protests that would leave an indelible mark on the country.
The proposed cuts to agricultural subsidies and tax reductions on diesel fuel and vehicle taxes for agricultural vehicles would force the sector to shoulder an extra billion euros annually, according to Rukwied. He urged Özdemir to use his influence within the government to protect farmers and rural communities. The farmers' association had actively encouraged nationwide demonstrations through its regional affiliates, and over 3,000 people were registered for the rally.
A groundswell of dissatisfaction among farmers
As protests intensified, the government answered with its proposals to preserve the vehicle tax exemption, while phasing out the diesel tax reduction gradually over a three-year period. Yet, farmers' frustration and anger continued to intensify. For years, they have been grappling with increased demands, tighter regulations, and restrictions, all while dealing with the influx of foreign food products. Rukwied asserted that farm profits had exceeded record highs, but farmers' sour mood was driven by factors beyond tax breaks.
In response to farmers' demonstrations, Greenpeace acknowledged that the government could do away with the agricultural diesel subsidy without causing severe damage. The environmental organization argued that with booming agricultural and food prices and various other subsidies, it was a financially justifiable move to scrap the handout while minimizing emissions.
Takeaways:
- Farmers organized demonstrations throughout Germany, in protests that have prompted government concessions.
- The agriculture minister was met with hostile reactions during the Berlin rally, and calls for new elections were heard louder throughout the event.
- Greenpeace came out in support of the government's decision, arguing that the financial impact on farmers would be minimal and the environmental benefits would be significant.
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