UPA Andalucía Mobilizes Against Proposed CAP Reform
UPA Andalucía rallies to oppose CAP reforms that threaten support for Spanish agriculture.
Key Points
- • UPA Andalucía calls for immediate political action against CAP reform.
- • The proposed reform may dismantle existing agricultural support systems.
- • Concerns of unfair competition within the EU are raised.
- • Plans for a joint strategy meeting in September to influence reforms.
UPA Andalucía has launched a strong political campaign to oppose the proposed reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which they argue could dismantle crucial agricultural support systems. Secretary General Jesús Cózar Pérez emphasized the necessity of immediate political action to prevent what he describes as a detrimental overhaul of the CAP, urging a united front among various agricultural stakeholders, including both the Spanish and regional governments. He stated, "We need to work together to secure a CAP budget that reflects our needs and values."
The agricultural union is particularly concerned about the implications of the reforms, which they claim could foster unfair internal competition among EU member states. As some countries could continue to receive significant subsidies while Spanish farmers suffer, there are fears of an unlevel playing field that undermines the principles of equity in the common market. Cózar also highlighted that reduced CAP funding may lead to higher food prices in supermarkets, affecting not only farmers but consumers as well.
Furthermore, UPA Andalucía plans to hold an Interlocution Table in September to devise a collective strategy aimed at influencing European policymakers and advocating for a CAP that supports family farming and ensures food sovereignty within Europe. The organization is committed to utilizing all available institutional channels, including the European Parliament and relevant committees, to voice their objections.