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All farmers in the EU affected by natural disasters can invoke force majeure

by AI | 03.Jun 2024 | Europe in brief AI

Brussels ensured, with the aim of administrative relief for farmers in the EU, that all those who operate in areas affected by natural disasters can claim force majeure under the common agricultural policy.

Damage from weather on the field in Slovenske gorice. Photo: Andreja Seršen Dobaj/STA

Brussels – Within the framework of European agricultural policy, all farmers in areas affected by natural disasters can invoke force majeure, explained the European Commission. With this, they want to reduce administrative burdens for farmers, who have demanded this in recent months in protests across numerous European countries, as well as for the authorities of member states.

The concept of force majeure within the common agricultural policy (CAP) enables farmers across the EU to be exempted from strict obligations related to CAP payments in cases of extraordinary and unpredictable events beyond their control. This includes, for example, severe floods or droughts.

“The Commission explains that force majeure can apply to all farmers working in areas affected by severe and unpredictable natural disasters or weather events,” they stated.

Thus, Brussels aims to reduce administrative burdens for member states, which, for instance, would no longer need to decide on a case-by-case basis.

They are also reducing the burden for farmers, who have demanded this in recent months in protests across numerous member states.

Slovenian farmers also protested, having been affected by many natural disasters last year. Frost damage, hailstorms, and floods in agricultural production in Slovenia amounted to nearly 90 million euros last year. (May 30)