Brussels Times reports that FUGEA, a Belgian agricultural union, said in the provisional enactment of the EU-Mercosur treaty without waiting for the democratic and judicial scrutiny from the European Union “is blatant disregard for democratic processes” and farmers’ concerns.
The agricultural union describes the move as an unprecedented “power grab” and warns it may strengthen anti-EU sentiment and distrust towards European institutions.
FUGEA is urging the European Parliament to stand up to the “undemocratic move” of the Commission and calls on EU member states to block the implementation of the treaty. The Union has vows to continue mobilising against the agreement.
While farmers in several European countries are starkly opposed to the trade deal, several leading European politicians have welcomed it, which they refer to as the “cows-for-cars” agreement. Manfred Weber, leader of the People’s Party faction, called the agreement a strategic breakthrough, saying it strengthens Europe’s economic presence in Latin America. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also welcomed the provisional entry into force, saying that it would be good for European exports.
