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.
Related EHN coverage: Farmers across Europe face mental health struggles due to climate and economic pressures
