Politico takes stock of Ursula von der Leyen’s promises and plans for her new term. Unfortunately, Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, is once again leaning toward business and industrial interests, instead of promoting a truly sustainable food policy and agriculture that is friendly to people, planets and animals. Von der Leyen shifts the focus from the moral obligation to act on climate to economic issues, suggesting that competitiveness will be the key factor in the fight for climate neutrality. After protests from the agricultural community rocked Europe, von der Leyen promised a “vision for agriculture and food” that aims to ensure “long-term competitiveness.” But instead of offering concrete, sustainable solutions, she focused on slogans to appease the business sector. Its proposals seem to be aimed at maintaining the status quo in the agricultural industry, which is neither conducive to sustainability nor to improving living conditions for people and animals. Faced with a more conservative and divided EP, von der Leyen seems to be avoiding controversy and choosing the politically safest options. While there is talk of “clean” industrial initiatives and “blue economy” programs, there is a lack of specifics on actual emission reductions and environmental protection.

What’s next? As a coalition and REV, we will closely monitor the actions of the Commission. We are awaiting regulations on a sustainable food system, changes in the Common Agricultural Policy, and directives protecting consumers. In October, hearings for the candidates for EU Commissioners will also take place. Undoubtedly, neither we nor the planet will passively watch political business or meat as usual.

Credit: European Parliament