French and Spanish farmers are preparing to lift the blockade at the border after their “flash action” a few days before the elections. The farmers blocking the two main cross-border points between France and Spain on Tuesday morning are demanding cheaper energy and are expected to leave soon, according to one of the organizers of the mobilization. Up to eight border crossings between Spain and France were blocked on Monday, stretching from Catalonia to the Basque Country. The A9 Montpellier-Barcelona motorway in both directions and the A63 Bordeaux-Bilbao motorway in the France-Spain direction were still blocked around 7 am on Tuesday.
The action, led by prominent figure Jérôme Bayle, aimed to influence the European elections by demanding cheaper energy and the enforcement of environmental standards on all farmers, including those from non-EU countries. The French and Spanish farmers involved in the blockade along the Pyrenees worked together in a rare display of solidarity, with the ultimate goal of achieving positive responses to their demands by the end of October or early November. The French farmers had a direct conversation with Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher, showing that their actions had grabbed the government’s attention.
The mobilization of farmers from both countries was described as “historic” by Jérôme Bayle, who emphasized the cooperation between the farmers on both sides of the Pyrenees. While the blockade is coming to an end, the French farmer warned the government that if their demands are not met, Europe could face further unrest. On the Spanish side, the mobilization was organized by local platforms formed in recent months and coordinated through Telegram groups. One such group, the Catalan collective Revolta Pagesa (Peasant Revolt), highlighted their fight for land defense and food sovereignty.
The farmers’ protest at the border was seen as a significant and impactful demonstration of unity and action. The government’s response to the farmers’ demands will be crucial in determining the future course of action and potential escalation of protests. Despite the initial blockade, there is hope for constructive dialogue and resolution between the farmers and the authorities. The coordination between French and Spanish farmers reflects a shared commitment to addressing common challenges in the agricultural sector and advocating for fair treatment and support.
The farmers’ mobilization near the Pyrenees brought attention to key issues affecting the agricultural community, including energy costs and environmental regulations. By blocking the border crossings, the farmers successfully drew attention to their demands and put pressure on the government to address these concerns. The unity and determination displayed by the farmers in this joint action underscored the importance of solidarity and collaboration in addressing shared challenges. Moving forward, the outcome of this protest will have implications for agricultural policies and practices in both France and Spain. It remains to be seen how the authorities will respond to the farmers’ demands and whether a resolution can be reached to prevent further unrest.
