Rural farmers in Braslou, France, feel abandoned by politicians and authorities, leading many to consider voting for the far-right National Rally (RN) party. Despite concerns about European subsidies, many farmers see them as essential for survival. Mathieu, a grain farmer and member of the Young Farmers union, voted for the far-right in the European elections but is considering voting for a member of Emmanuel Macron’s Renaissance party in the upcoming legislative elections. He values a politician who listens to and supports farmers’ interests.
The far-right has gained significant support in rural areas of France, with RN coming close to gaining 40% of the vote in the European elections. In Braslou, the party received 25.4% of the vote, while Marion Maréchal’s party had 7.5%. Despite historically voting for the traditional right, farmers are increasingly turning to the far right in recent elections. European aid is crucial for farmers like Sylvain, who grows organic grains, as it allows them to continue their operations despite low prices. Without aid, many farmers would struggle to stay in business.
Organic farmers like Magali and her husband face challenges in maintaining diversified production while dealing with market pressures. For them, European agricultural policies like the CAP only serve to compensate for selling products at a loss. Magali believes that traditional conventional agriculture will eventually die out, but she is wary of dogmatic approaches like those of the Green party. She emphasizes the need for practical solutions to support farmers and ensure their livelihoods.
Overall, rural farmers in France are navigating political shifts and economic challenges that impact their livelihoods. While some opt for far-right parties due to perceived support for their interests, others value politicians who actively engage with and listen to farmers’ concerns. The ongoing debate about European subsidies and agricultural policies underscores the complexity of the issues facing rural communities. As farmers grapple with changing landscapes, political decisions, and economic pressures, finding a balance between tradition, innovation, and sustainability becomes paramount for the future of agriculture in France.
