Tensions Escalate Between FNSEA and Coordination Rurale Ahead of Agricultural Elections

FNSEA president Arnaud Rousseau condemns aggressive tactics by Coordination Rurale as protests disrupt his visit to Agen.

A visit by FNSEA president Arnaud Rousseau to Agen was disrupted by Coordination Rurale protesters, who blocked exits with tractors, fires, and debris.
The protest reflects mounting tensions between France's largest agricultural union, FNSEA, and the more radical Coordination Rurale ahead of January's chamber elections.
Coordination Rurale aims to challenge FNSEA's dominance by gaining control of 15 to 20 additional agricultural chambers, leveraging aggressive demonstrations to highlight their cause.
Arnaud Rousseau criticized the protests as 'lamentable' and accused Coordination Rurale of seeking chaos rather than constructive solutions for farmers.
Recent protests by Coordination Rurale included blockades at ports and distribution centers, focusing on grievances over EU regulations and trade agreements.