Strategic Dialogue in Agriculture: Promising words, concrete actions must follow

Strategic Dialogue in Agriculture: Promising words, concrete actions must follow

Sep 5, 2024| Agriculture, In the spotlight, Press release

EFFAT welcomes the delivery of the final report of the Strategic Dialogue in Agriculture to the President of the European Commission, Ms. Von der Leyen.

Representing millions of workers in the agri-food chain, EFFAT is encouraged by the report's acknowledgment that "socially just working conditions are an indispensable part of production in the agri-food sector".

Key positive aspects of the report include:

• Acknowledgment of Fair Working Conditions: The report correctly establishes the essential link between fair working conditions and the attractiveness of the agricultural sector calling also on the need to strengthen collective bargaining.
• Support for CAP Social Conditionality: It urges Member States to fully implement the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Social Conditionality.
• Tackling Exploitative Practices: The report calls for a harmonised EU approach to combating exploitative recruitment and outsourcing practices, and emphasizes the need to ensure mobile workers have access to rights counselling, including union membership, in their native languages.
• Commitment to a Just Transition: It pledges additional resources for achieving a just transition in the sector and the need to adapt health and safety standards to the evolving climate crisis. Furthermore, it advocates for a more sustainable approach to trade agreements.
• Anticipation of change and involvement of social partners: The report underscores the importance of conducting rigorous socio-economic impact assessments and involving social partners to ensure no one is left behind during the sector's transition.

However, despite these positive steps, the harsh realities for many agricultural workers across Europe remain unchanged. Millions continue to endure inadequate wages, unhealthy living conditions, and daily labour abuses. These workers, often the most vulnerable in the food production chain, deserve to be recognized and supported through initiatives aimed at significantly improving working conditions in the sector.

Kristjan Bragason, EFFAT General Secretary, commented on the report: "The report clearly addresses important labour issues and aligns with EFFAT's priorities, which is promising for the achievement of truly sustainable agriculture and food production. It also reflects EFFAT's active participation in the Dialogue. Now, it is crucial that swift and decisive implementation follows these recommendations."

EFFAT is fully committed to continuing its work in developing and implementing strategies for a sustainable agri-food sector in all its dimensions. We look forward to contributing to the proposed European Board on Agriculture and Food. Moreover, we eagerly anticipate the presentation of the announced Vision on Agriculture and Food, which must build on the Strategic Dialogue's recommendations, provide a clear timeline for implementation, and reinforce all three pillars of sustainability.