French farming crisis a result of ‘15 years of failure’ in policy, expert says
France 24
by FRANCE24February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Paris Agriculture Fair made history this year by omitting cows—a cornerstone of previous events—for the first time due to an outbreak of lumpy skin disease. The government’s response to the crisis, which included culling entire herds in affected areas, has sparked outrage among farmers. This issue contributed to protests in Paris last month, highlighting growing tensions within France’s agricultural sector. Jean-Luc Demarty, a former director-general at the European Commission, attributes these challenges to “15 years of failure” in French agricultural policy.
The absence of cows at the fair, a major attraction that typically draws large crowds, underscores the broader struggles faced by French farmers. The government’s handling of the lumpy skin disease outbreak has been particularly contentious, with some farmers accusing officials of overreacting and failing to balance public health concerns with economic livelihoods. This tension reflects deeper frustrations within the farming community, which has long grappled with issues like climate change, rising costs, and competition from cheaper imports.
Demarty’s critique points to systemic problems in France’s agricultural policies, which he claims have failed to adapt to modern challenges. These failures have left farmers vulnerable to economic instability and environmental crises. The situation highlights the delicate balance between protecting public health and supporting rural economies, a dilemma that resonates globally as countries navigate similar complexities in their agricultural sectors.
For readers interested in global affairs and political economy, this story sheds light on the intersection of disease outbreaks, government policy, and farmer livelihoods. It also underscores the broader implications for food security and economic stability in France, a country known for its influential agricultural industry. As farmers continue to face unprecedented challenges, the need for effective policy reform becomes increasingly urgent.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026