A fairer, greener and more performance based EU agricultural policy
Infographic - A fairer, greener and more performance based EU agricultural policy
The EU's common agricultural policy supports farmers and ensures high-quality food to European citizens. To respond to changing needs and challenges, the EU is working towards a new agricultural policy.
The EU’s common agricultural policy:
- supports 7 million beneficiaries across the EU
- provides high-quality food to 447 million Europeans
- has a budget of €386.6 billion, one third of the total EU budget
- contributes to climate action with some 40% of its budget
What is new in the policy?
More flexibility in planning
Each member state is asked to draw up a strategic plan, whose goals should be in line with the EU-wide policy objectives. The plans allow countries to better define how to use agricultural funds according to local conditions and needs.
Plans include countries’:
- needs and tools
- actions and targets
- specific interventions available to farmers
Better targeting of financial support
Income support will be distributed more fairly. Payments per farmer might be reduced and capped as part of a more comprehensive redistribution of support from larger to smaller farms.
Funds will be prioritised for:
- small farms
- young farmers
Greener farming practices
Through eco-schemes, specific payments are provided to farmers that adopt climate-sensitive and nature-friendly practices, which can help implement the European Green Deal objectives. Examples of these actions are:
- organic farming
- crop rotation
- preservation of carbon-rich soils
More focus on performance
Member states plan interventions based on clear results, and report on performance based on their strategic plans’ objectives.
Farmers receive financial support on the condition that they adopt practices beneficial for the climate and the environment.
Commitment on social and labour rights
Member states commit to improving respect for social and labour conditions for farm workers.
Agricultural paying agencies in each member state issue penalties to employers that fail to comply with these rules.
When will the changes take effect?
2021-2022: Transitional period with extension of most past provisions and preparation for the new phase
2023-2027: Implementation of the reformed CAP and its new rules