The French cabinet received both applause and warnings, as many farmers feel abandoned and fear for their future.
The congress marked a renewed effort by the FNSEA to strengthen its central role in French agricultural policy. In recent years, its dominance has declined due to the rise of smaller, more activist farmers' organizations. Nevertheless, with over 200,000 members, the FNSEA remains the largest umbrella organization of agricultural groups in France.
Within the FNSEA itself, increasing divisions are evident. Traditional farmers' organizations are concerned that sustainable and organic farming too much dominate the agenda. On the other hand, organic farmers feel the FNSEA does too little to support ecologically responsible farming. This internal struggle makes it harder to speak with one voice.
During the congress, farmers called for less bureaucracy and faster assistance during crises. Especially rules on pesticide use and water purification cause frustration. The organization calls for "practical solutions instead of paper plans" and warns that farmers' patience is running out if no concrete results follow.
The French government had already received a wake-up call with the farmers' protests earlier this year. Minister Annie Genevard was applauded during the congress but also faced strong criticism. Her announcements about accelerated subsidy payments and more consultation with farmers were seen as steps in the right direction but certainly not sufficient.
The FNSEA is one of many agricultural organizations in France, a country where the agricultural sector is deeply rooted in the economy. Besides the FNSEA, there are sectoral associations for dairy farmers, grain growers, winemakers, and organic producers, for example. Together, these groups represent a significant portion of the French countryside and have political influence extending to Brussels.
A prominent theme this year was water management. Due to drought and climate change, irrigation has become a crucial issue. Farmers are asking for more storage basins and fewer restrictions, while environmental groups fear damage to nature and biodiversity. The FNSEA demands that agriculture be given priority in the distribution of water.
Finally, FNSEA chairman Arnaud Rousseau emphasized that the time of empty promises is over. He called on the government to make clear decisions for the future of French agriculture. According to him, more is at stake than just economic interests: it also concerns food security, viability in rural areas, and respect for farming work.