European Farmers Protest: Manure Dumps and Tractors Erupt Over EU Agricultural Policies and Mercosur Trade Deal

Farmers across France and Europe staged dramatic protests. In France, they dumped manure outside politicians’ homes. In Brussels, thousands of farmers took to the streets. The protests highlight anger over EU and government agricultural policies. Rising costs, low crop prices, strict environmental rules and trade deals have left farmers struggling.

French farmers targeted homes and offices of politicians. They say policies favor large corporations and foreign producers. Small and family-owned farms face growing pressure. Farmer unions say the protests show frustration and a lack of dialogue. Authorities condemned the acts as disruptive and unhygienic. Yet the farmers’ message was clear.

In Brussels, tractors blocked major roads near the European Parliament. Crowds waved banners demanding protection for local agriculture. Protesters opposed the EU-Mercosur trade deal, which would remove tariffs between the EU and South American countries. Farmers warned that cheaper imports could flood Europe and harm local producers.

Tensions rose as clashes erupted between police and protesters. Officers used water cannons and tear gas. Some demonstrators hurled objects and set tires and straw on fire. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen faced direct pressure from the crowd. Tractors, banners and chants filled the streets, showing the scale of the unrest.

The protests highlight a growing crisis in European agriculture. Farmers are pushing back against policies they say threaten their survival. As the EU debates Mercosur, concerns over trade, environmental rules, and farm protection remain high.

The message from farmers is clear. They are united, vocal and determined. They want to defend their livelihoods and secure the future of regional agriculture.