Corfu Farmers Protest Government ‘Terrorism’ and Authoritarianism
Corfu, December 8 – The Corfu Federation of Agricultural Associations (OASK) has released a statement vehemently condemning what it describes as the government’s ‘terrorism’ and authoritarianism directed at farmers. These farmers are actively struggling for their survival and the continuation of agricultural production, aiming to ensure the public has access to quality products at affordable prices.
The decision to establish roadblocks on national highways and undertake dynamic, coordinated actions across Greece was made during a nationwide meeting held on November 23, 2025, in Nikaia, Larissa. This significant gathering outlined a comprehensive list of demands essential for the farmers’ survival.
Key Demands of the Farmers:
- Payment of All Outstanding Government Debts and Basic Aid: Farmers demand the immediate payment of all outstanding government debts, including the basic aid, which has been significantly reduced by approximately 40%, rendering it insufficient.
- Guaranteed Minimum Prices: They call for minimum guaranteed prices that cover production costs and provide a sustainable income, enabling them to meet living expenses and cultivation costs. The current situation sees traders and industrialists purchasing products below cost, while retail prices remain prohibitively high. For example, olive oil is currently sold at around 2.60 euros per kilogram, yet it reaches the shelf at 17 euros for 750 grams.
- Reduction of Production Costs: Farmers demand a reduction in production costs and the abolition of VAT on agricultural supplies and widely consumed popular goods.
- Tax-Free Fuel: They advocate for tax-free fuel, similar to the provisions enjoyed by shipowners.
- Reform of ELGA Regulations: The current ELGA (Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization) regulations are deemed unacceptable, as they fail to recognize and fully compensate for damages caused by adverse weather conditions, as well as plant and animal diseases. Farmers demand that ELGA insure and compensate 100% of production against all natural hazards and diseases.
- Linking Subsidies to Production: Subsidies should be directly linked to agricultural production and livestock numbers. Those who produce should receive subsidies, and these subsidies should be protected from seizure.
- Necessary Infrastructure Projects: The implementation of essential infrastructure projects, including agricultural road networks, flood protection works, and fire protection measures, is crucial.
- No Reduction in CAP Funds for Military Preparations: Farmers oppose any reduction in Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) funds for military preparations.
- Addressing Livestock Disease (Sheep Pox): In response to the sheep pox outbreak in livestock, farmers demand animal vaccination, full compensation for culled animals, compensation for lost income, and assistance for the free reconstitution of herds.
- OPEKEPE Scandal: Regarding the OPEKEPE scandal, farmers demand the return and distribution of stolen funds to the rightful beneficiaries, that producers not be penalized with fines, that political and criminal responsibilities be assigned, and that the names of those involved be made public.
OASK emphasizes that a coordinated struggle is the only way forward against the CAP policies of the EU and the respective governments, as these policies are seen as the root cause of scandals and aim to concentrate land and production into fewer hands.
In light of these grievances, OASK is calling for a mobilization on Wednesday, December 10, at 11:00 AM at the Regional Administration building (Old Courts).
Farmers, farmwomen, your coordinated struggle is the only path against the CAP policies of the EU and the governments, as this is the cause of scandals, and aims to concentrate land and production in fewer hands.
Source: https://www.startmediacorfu.gr/i-oask-katangellei-tin-tromokratia-kai-ton-aftarchismo-tis-kyvernisis-enantion-ton-agroton/
