The fragilities that exist within food and energy supply chains have also been laid bare by global events of recent years. These fragilities reflect the interests of a handful of powerful organisations and yet jeopardise access to fresh, healthy and sufficient food for societies across the globe. Every year, LVC and ECVC take action on 17 April to demand that the control of food and production systems be put once again in the hands of the population, in the form of food sovereignty.

The backdrop of the International Day of Peasant Struggles for 2024 sees peasant farmers in Europe and beyond carrying out massive protests against destructive agricultural policies, seeking fair prices and a dignified life for peasants and a viable transition to agroecology and sustainable practices. For ECVC, this centres around an end to Free Trade agreements and unfair competition, as well as strengthening EU legislation to legally ensure that prices are higher than our production costs, putting in place market regulation and fairer aid distribution through the CAP, and reducing the administrative burden on farmers through measures that respond to current climate and environmental challenges.

This struggle to protect and uphold the rights of peasant farmers in Europe is even more pertinent given the upcoming European elections. After months of mobilisations, European policy makers must ensure the political agenda reflects the demands and needs peasant farmers and ensure they can earn a dignified living whilst also facilitating a transition to agroecology and sustainable practices. This 17 April, ECVC farmers across Europe will continue to act to put forward concrete solutions and proposals to make this a reality in Europe. ECVC will also launch a publication on its priorities for the European elections and the following political mandate.

ECVC actions on 17 April are also part of a wider struggle for peasants' rights, led by La Via Campesina across the globe. The full call to action for the 17 April from La Via Campesina can be found here, where you can find out how to get involved and download the official communications kit, poster and materials.