The so-called ‘Strategic Dialogue’ shows that a transition to sustainable agri-food systems is necessary and there are solutions that work for farmers, nature and society.
Jan Plagge, IFOAM Organics Europe’s President, took part in the dialogue and shares his views: “The Strategic Dialogue was not a walk in the park, but it proved to be a valuable initiative to move beyond the current polarisation on agriculture issues. The dialogue succeeded in identifying a common way forward for EU agriculture considering it should be within the planetary boundaries and reconcile environmental sustainability with a fair income for farmers. There is broad agreement that transitioning to sustainable farming systems is necessary and should pay off for farmers. This will mean a significant reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) so it adequately rewards organic farmers and offers real financial added value for the environmental services they are providing.”
The European organic movement looks forward to seeing how the EU institutions will realise the recommendations, namely in the EU’s ‘Vision for Agriculture and Food’ and in Commission President Von der Leyen’s continued support of stakeholders’ engagement. We also look forward to being involved in the process of implementing this report within the advisory board that will be established by the European Commission.
On organic’s role as leading choice to reach this common goal, Jan Plagge continued: “The Strategic Dialogue recommendations recognise organic farming as the only regulated sustainable production system that already delivers environmental and climate protection, and as prime example of a food production system that reconciles nature protection and farmers’ income. If policymakers implement the recommendations, organic farming would be further strengthened and more attractive in a food system in which the sustainable choice would be the easiest.”
