Polish farmers urge EU to protect agriculture funding in 2028–2034 budget

Polish agricultural organisations have written to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen urging a reversal of planned reductions to EU farming subsidies in the bloc’s next long-term budget for 2028–2034.

The letter, signed by 30 organisations, argues that food security should remain a strategic priority for the European Union and warns that cutting agricultural spending could weaken Europe’s ability to respond to crises, Caliber.Az reports, citing Polish media.

“Without food security, there will be no European security,” the groups said, framing farming support as essential to economic stability, supply chain resilience and inflation control.

The appeal comes amid broader political resistance from a group of 16 EU member states, including Poland, Spain and Italy, which have voiced concern over proposed changes to the structure of EU funding. The coalition has called for higher allocations for agriculture and regional development, as well as continued national control over how funds are distributed.

The European Commission has reportedly proposed reducing agricultural and cohesion spending by around €100 billion compared with the current budget cycle, while increasing overall EU expenditure. The plan also includes a shift towards a model linking payments to reforms, similar to the EU’s post-pandemic recovery fund.

Supporters of the approach argue it would improve accountability and ensure that EU money is tied to measurable structural reforms. They also say a more centralised system could enhance oversight and strategic coordination across member states.

However, critics — including the Polish farming groups — warn that such centralisation could reduce flexibility and weaken the ability of regional authorities to address local agricultural needs. They also caution that greater conditionality may create uncertainty for farmers and undermine long-term planning.

By Aghakazim Guliyev