Farming Future: Left Party Pushes for Land in Farmers' Hands on Soil Day
In the ever-expanding urban jungle, the Left Party in Saxony believes that arable land is under attack. Recognizing this threat on International Soil Day (Dec. 5), they've called for a law that safeguards farmers' right to land, hinders land speculation, and protects agricultural resources.
Antonia Mertsching, a Saxony state parliament representative, explained their stance. "Farmland should remain in the hands of farmers," she stated, adding that curtailing non-agricultural investors' influence is necessary. Price constraints and pre-emptive rights could help smaller farms secure land. Furthermore, she proposed that land companies with altruistic objectives should maintain land reserves that they lease to rural businesses.
Addressing the loss of arable land in recent years, Mertsching also warned of the devastating 5.8-hectare daily decrease due to approvals for new housing and transportation infrastructure. Agriculture suffered the most, losing 4.3 hectares to construction every day. Consequently, irreplaceable soil continues to be sealed, emphasizing the need for change.
Must-Read Inspirations:
Left Party's Perspective:
In response to declining arable land, the Left Party advocates for a comprehensive agricultural structure law. This legislation would hinder land speculation and increase opportunities for family farms. Key factors that support their position include:
- Combat speculation through fair taxation: imposing a land value tax, which taxes value rather than improvements, diminishes land speculation.
- Establish clear land use guidelines: formulate regulations to prevent misuse of land, protect agricultural lands, and promote sustainable development.
- Leverage public ownership: governments can acquire key land assets to ensure that essential farming land remains accessible. Implementing strict lease policies also maintains the balance of power between farmers and land speculators.
- Assist farmers financially: introduce subsidies and grants for farmers to reduce acquisition costs, and encourage agricultural cooperatives for collective bargaining.
- Encourage community control: set up community land trusts to promote community engagement and equitable land use, fostering local interests and encouraging sustainable farming.
- Strengthen transparency and public participation: engage communities in land use decisions, ensuring accountability, fairness, and supporting sustainable land management.
- Develop sound regulatory frameworks: establish policies in coastal regions, strengthening their land use to prevent speculative activities, and promoting sustainable fisheries and marine resources.
By implementing these strategic measures, the Left Party envisions creating a more sustainable farming future, ensuring access to arable land for future generations.
