Farmers in Europe face rising costs, climate pressures, and far-right influences

Amid the climate crisis and costly environmental policies, European farmers feel neglected and burdened, making them susceptible to far-right appeals that claim to defend rural communities.

Matthew Taylor and Helena Horton report for The Guardian.

In short:

European farmers, struggling with high costs and environmental regulations, feel marginalized and ignored, particularly by urban voters.
Populist and far-right groups are seizing on farmers’ grievances, framing climate policies as elitist and advocating against EU environmental measures.
Anti-racism advocates warn that without fair, inclusive climate action, support for far-right ideologies may grow, undermining both democratic stability and environmental goals.

Key quote:

“What we have seen … should serve as a warning sign to the political classes – the necessary rapid transition to a low carbon, sustainable economy has to be properly funded, planned and equitable and not done at the expense of working people.”

— Nick Lowles, chief executive of Hope Not Hate

Why this matters:

The shift to sustainable farming needs fair policies to prevent backlash and avoid strengthening far-right movements across Europe. If ignored, rural resentment could not only hinder climate goals but also fuel political divides that risk democratic values.

www.theguardian.com

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