“Farmers deserve better.” That was the message delivered by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a recorded video addressing the opening of the “Shaping the Future of Farming and the Agri-Food Sector” conference held in Brussels on 8 May 2025. Her statement set the tone for a day of dialogue, as she called for a renewed focus on farmers’ realities. “The Commission got a bold message: slash red tape. More flexibility for small farmers. Fewer inspections. Less paperwork. More trust – so you can focus more on the farm and your family,” von der Leyen said, striking a chord with many in the room and watching online.

Organised by the European Commission, the hybrid conference gathered around 1,000 participants from all EU Member States. It aimed to bring together stakeholders to discuss how to develop a strong vision for EU agriculture and food systems that is sustainable, resilient, and attractive to future generations.

The Agriculture Commissioner, Christophe Hansen, offered a pragmatic yet forward-thinking message. “This Vision is the starting point to shape the new policy. We need feedback and to discuss. From vision to action,” he said.

Hansen acknowledged that many of the issues faced by farmers extend beyond the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). “We need to ask what is going wrong with current farming operations” he noted, highlighting the complex nature of farming challenges in today’s Europe.

He made it clear that the EU is seeking a meaningful policy change. “It’s evolution, not revolution,” he emphasised. “The CAP needs to provide stability in these unstable times.”

Malta Youth in Agriculture Foundation participates in Key EU Conference

I attended this conference as part of a press trip organised by DG Agri, and was representing the Malta Youth in Agriculture Foundation (MaYA). Participating in such a dialogue is important for our rural community. The MaYA Foundation is committed to advocating for generational renewal, innovation, sustainability, and ensuring a thriving economy.

One of the most urgent themes discussed was generation renewal. Commissioner Hansen noted that Europe has lost thousands of farmers in recent years, and only about 9 million farms remain across the EU. Without fresh incentives and support for young entrants, the sector risks long-term decline. Farmers are crucial to the EU for many reasons, including food production, economic output and environmental stewardship. 

As the European Commission moves from consultation to implementation, voices from across Member states will be essential in shaping a farming future that is not only fit for purpose, but also fit for people.