Farming - Agri-producers rally in Brussels before European polls
A few days prior to the European elections, agricultural workers organised a demonstration in Brussels, criticising the agricultural policies of the European Union. The police in Brussels estimated that approximately 1200 protesters engaged, alongside around 500 tractors. Originally, organisers had anticipated a turnout of 25,000.
The farmers commenced their gathering near the Atomium, slightly removed from central Brussels. In the afternoon, a section of protesters with their tractors left the Brussels icon to head towards the European Parliament.
Majority of the tractors hailed from Flanders, the Netherlands, and Poland. They were accompanied by others sporting German flags and posters. This gathering was seemingly orchestrated by the wing "Farmers Defence Force". Initially, no incidents were reported, revealed a police spokesperson. Previously, other farmer protests in Belgium had escalated into violence, with officers attacked and fires set alight.
The European Greens voiced their opinions on the recent protest: "Currently, right-wing campaigners are attempting to dominate the streets of Brussels, masquerading as farmers." Major European farmers' federations had rejected any form of engagement. This demonstrates that this protest does not encompass the beliefs of the general farming community.
