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Farmers protest government-ordered cattle slaughters
French farmers have intensified demonstrations against the mandatory culling of herds infected with Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), clashing with riot police and targeting government buildings in southern regions.
Violent confrontations in Ariège
On Thursday, tensions escalated in the Ariège department when veterinary teams arrived to euthanize cattle at a farm suspected of LSD contamination. Protesters confronted officers, leading to scuffles. Similar unrest has spread across the south, with farmers dumping manure outside administrative offices and blocking roads.
In Charente-Maritime, demonstrators vandalized the offices of several environmental groups, though authorities have not confirmed a direct link to the LSD dispute.
Controversy over culling policy
LSD, a viral disease transmitted by flies, causes fever, skin nodules, and reduced milk production, though it is rarely fatal. France's first outbreak occurred in the Alps in June, disrupting a stage of the Tour de France. Since then, 110 outbreaks have been recorded, primarily in the east but increasingly in the southwest.
The government's response-slaughtering entire herds upon detecting a single infected animal-has drawn fierce criticism from two major farmers' unions, Confédération Rurale and Confédération Paysanne. They argue the measure is excessive and that selective culling combined with vaccination would be sufficient.
"We cannot distinguish between healthy cattle and symptomless carriers, which forces us to cull entire herds," said Stéphanie Philizot, president of the SNGTV veterinary union.
Stéphanie Philizot, SNGTV
Approximately 3,000 animals have been killed since June, with officials attributing the spread to illegal cattle movements from infected zones.
Broader agricultural discontent
The protests reflect deeper frustrations within France's farming sector, which feels besieged by EU regulations and foreign competition. Winegrowers face declining consumption, while poultry farmers grapple with avian flu outbreaks.
Farmers are also mobilizing against an impending EU free-trade agreement with South American nations, fearing an influx of cheaper imports produced under weaker environmental and safety standards. A major demonstration is planned in Brussels next week during an EU leaders' summit.
Government concerns
Officials worry the LSD dispute could merge with other grievances, fueling a larger movement. The agriculture ministry has not yet signaled plans to revise its culling policy but faces mounting pressure to address farmers' demands.
