In recent times, the plight of farmers in France has taken center stage in the political arena, with claims of alarming suicide rates among this vital community. Amidst the anger and protests, it is essential to analyze the situation and understand the underlying factors contributing to the distress of French farmers.
Statements from prominent figures, including European Parliament member Yannick Jadot and Eric Zemmour, president of Reconquête!, have brought attention to the mental health crisis among farmers. The claim of one suicide every two days is based on data from a 2016 study by Santé publique France, which reported 529 suicides among farmers.
According to the Mutualité sociale agricole (MSA), in 2016, 529 suicides were attributed to individuals affiliated with the agricultural sector. The most recent data from October 2022 reveals a continued risk, with a 30.9% higher mortality rate due to suicide in the agricultural community aged 15 to 64 compared to the general population.
Multiple factors contribute to the alarming suicide rates among farmers. These include financial struggles, with one-third of farmers living below the poverty line, as well as the burden of high charges, low income, and the substantial workload. Additionally, feelings of isolation, fear of failure, and challenges in balancing work and family life exacerbate the mental health crisis.
Certain subgroups within the farming community face a higher risk of suicide. The MSA’s data indicates a 2.1 times higher mortality risk for non-salaried farmers residing in areas dominated by bovine farming for milk production. Age is also a significant factor, with farmers over 65 experiencing a 63.5% higher suicide rate compared to the overall population in the same age group.
The MSA highlights regional variations, with farmers in north-western France, particularly in Brittany, facing a suicide risk exceeding 50% compared to their counterparts nationwide. These regional differences emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address specific challenges faced by farmers in different areas.
The recent wave of protests, led by various agricultural unions such as FNSEA, Jeunes Agriculteurs, Confédération Paysanne, and Coordination Rurale, underscores the urgency of addressing the grievances within the farming community.
The FNSEA, representing over 212,000 members, emphasizes the need for measures to protect farmers’ income, including the enforcement of the Egalim law and immediate disbursement of EU agricultural subsidies. They also advocate for a reduction in environmental regulations, opposing measures such as leaving 4% of cultivable land fallow.
Jeunes Agriculteurs, allied with FNSEA, focuses on the challenges faced by young farmers, demanding better support for new installations and simplified access to agricultural land.
The Coordination Rurale, as the second-largest agricultural union, shares concerns about environmental regulations and free trade agreements. Their demand for the immediate renegotiation of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reflects their commitment to addressing farmers’ needs.
Confédération Paysanne, a left-leaning union, prioritizes agroecology and fair remuneration for farmers. They advocate for stronger enforcement and reinforcement of the Egalim laws and oppose the Mercosur trade agreement.
The crisis among French farmers is a complex issue rooted in financial, social, and environmental challenges. As the agricultural unions continue their protests, finding a comprehensive solution requires a nuanced approach that addresses the diverse demands and concerns within the farming community. The urgency lies in creating a sustainable and supportive environment for farmers, mitigating the impact of global warming on their livelihoods, and ensuring the well-being of this vital sector.
Written by Imane Moumen
