The position of the organic movement on the next Common Agricultural Policy

On 16 July, the European Commission presented its proposal for the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), i.e. the budget of the EU post 2027, and the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). After months of discussions and rumours in the EU bubble, the proposals and figures are –almost- all available.  

For the European organic movement, this CAP proposal, which ringfences the budget only for income support in the form of area-based payments and leaves it up to Member States to finance agri-environmental measures, is a huge step backwards for sustainability in the agri-food system. We call instead for a clear ringfencing of CAP money for environment, climate, and animal welfare to provide a predictable path for farmers towards sustainability. 

Indeed, the European organic movement welcomes the recognition that organic farming is a key policy instrument in the post-2027 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) but warns that it risks not being implemented by Member States without a ringfenced budget for environmental action. Farmers engaged in sustainable practices like organic agriculture need a stable policy support that provides a long-term perspective. Indeed, organic agriculture is a simple solution that delivers high environmental benefits and socioeconomic benefits for farmers and society, by preserving the health of farmers and consumers, increasing the profitability and resilience of farms, playing a key role in generational renewal, and revitalising rural areas. A clear budget should be ensured to support the organic farmers and incentivise more farmers to convert to organic farming.  

More info in IFOAM Organics Europe’s press release.