Renew Europe approved its position paper on Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The paper delivers three clear messages to EU institutions ahead of the next budget negotiations: protect the CAP’s structure, secure a robust budget, and make food security and generational renewal a top priority. The EU must safeguard a strong, unified Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) that supports long-term investment and stability in farming. As the European Commission prepares its next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and member states discuss CAP funding, Renew Europe calls for CAP to remain a dedicated and standalone policy with its own funding -distinct from other EU financial instruments -to ensure stability, clarity, and long-term investment in agriculture. Protect the CAP’s structure, supported by a robust budget - accessible to all farmers While the European Commission aims to reshape the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to address global challenges, there is a growing risk of renationalisation, which could lead to further fragmentation and inconsistency across the EU. Renew coordinator Elsi Katainen said: “Growing uncertainty and heavy administrative burdens are daily challenges for our farmers. We want to have a Common Agriculture Policy which supports long-term investments and stability. Combining tradition with technology is the success for the European agriculture - supporting farmers to lead the way in a sustainable and competitive digital era, which also supports young farmers to enter to the sector” Food security and resilience Europe’s agriculture is part of Europe's strategic resilience. In the context of global challenges and extreme weather events driven by climate change, Europe is facing an unpredictable environment that affects economies, international relations, and social stability worldwide. The Common Agricultural Policy should also value and protect food security through traditional family farm models and the way of life in rural communities. Accessible funding for the next generation of farmers To secure the future of European agriculture, Renew Europe proposes a farmer-first approach that tackles today’s challenges with concrete solutions. By reducing administrative burdens and placing generational renewal at the heart of the CAP, we aim to empower young and new farmers with real access to land, finance, and training. This will enable them to take the lead in building a modern, resilient, and sustainable sector. A resilient countryside needs fair working conditions, good local services, and real chances for people to build their future. The future of European agriculture lies in combining tradition with technology- supporting farmers to lead the way in a sustainable and competitive digital era. Read the full paper here. |