Polish agricultural workers and trade unions have announced a major protest action in the capital on May 20. Farmers are citing a deep crisis in the sector and are demanding immediate government assistance.
According to industry publications, the protest is being organized by the Independent Self-Governing Trade Union of Individual Farmers “Solidarity” (NSZZ RI “Solidarność”). Thousands of farmers from across the country are expected to converge on Warsaw.
Farmers point to several critical factors that have pushed the sector to the brink of survival:
Weather-related losses — adverse weather conditions in recent times have led to a significant decline in crop yields.
Low purchase prices — farmers receive payments for their produce that do not cover the cost of production.
EU policy — stringent environmental requirements, the Green Deal, and trade agreements (with Mercosur) that open the market to cheap imports from third countries.
General economic hardships — rising production costs (fuel, fertilizers, loans).
“The situation is dramatic,” the organizers emphasize. They are calling for immediate support measures: the provision of preferential loans, direct financial assistance, and a review of certain decisions at the EU level.
The protest is planned as a large-scale event involving not only farmers but also representatives of other trade unions. The organizers promise a peaceful demonstration but warn that they are prepared for a prolonged “dialogue” with the authorities if their demands go unheard.