farmers protest — farmers protest — Farmers are set to drive their tractors to the presidential palace at 10.15am on Thursday, marking a significant protest against what they describe as unprecedented pressure on the rural community. This demonstration is part of broader European mobilisations where agricultural workers across EU member states are voicing their concerns over challenges facing the farming sector.
Cyprus’ agricultural organisations have stated that the primary protest will occur in Brussels, but local farmers are committed to making their voices heard at home as well. A resolution will be delivered to the presidential palace highlighting the urgent need for change in agricultural policies.
The farmers’ protest is fuelled by growing frustrations over dependency on imports, potential budgetary cuts to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027, and increasing bureaucratic hurdles exacerbated by climate change. These factors are being cited as detrimental to their livelihoods, leading to what they believe is an impending eradication of the farming community.
Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou addressed the concerns on Wednesday, stating that during Cyprus’ EU presidency in the first half of 2026, her priority will be to develop a robust and fair Common Agricultural Policy that addresses the genuine needs of farmers while reducing administrative burdens.
Panayiotou’s comments reflect sentiments echoed by agricultural organisations, which describe the European Commission’s recent proposals as “unacceptable.” They argue that these changes threaten the foundational structures established by the CAP, which has been a cornerstone of EU agricultural policy for decades.
On Thursday, farmers from across Cyprus are expected to gather in various locations, including car parks in Nicosia, to prepare for their journey to the presidential palace. At approximately 10.30am, they will drive in a convoy to submit their resolutions, making a strong visual statement about their situation.
In Paphos, farmers will also participate in the protest by driving their tractors to the road leading to Timi near the airport exit, where they plan to remain as a show of solidarity with their fellow agricultural workers.
