In response to the ongoing challenges plaguing the agricultural sector, farmers in the Czech Republic are gearing up for another demonstration in Prague this Thursday, as announced by Martin Pýcha, president of the Agricultural Union. Anticipated to draw hundreds of farming vehicles, the protest will take the form of a slow-moving demonstration rather than a blockade, with the focal point being government buildings in the capital city.

Originating primarily from the Central Bohemian region and surrounding areas, the convoy of farming equipment will converge on Prague, joined by farmers from across the country. Jan Doležal, president of the Agrarian Chamber, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stressing the need for the government to address the prevailing crisis in agriculture with greater urgency.

Despite the farmers’ pleas, Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný has rebuffed their demands, asserting his reluctance to negotiate under the pressure of protests. While acknowledging the farmers’ right to demonstrate, Výborný remains steadfast in his stance, as communicated to them in a recent phone call.

The farmers’ grievances encompass a range of issues, including demands for support for rural employment, preservation of animal welfare support, and reversal of tax adjustments implemented under the government’s consolidation package. Furthermore, they are urging the government to advocate for the interests of Czech farmers in negotiations concerning the trade agreement with Ukraine and to maximize potential extraordinary support for farmers, subject to approval from the European Commission.

Notably, this demonstration is just one in a series of planned protests, with another slated for around March 21 coinciding with discussions on the future of European agriculture in Brussels. Pýcha has appealed to the residents of Prague for patience and solidarity during this critical period, underscoring the significance of collective action in addressing the pressing challenges facing the agricultural community.