Contradictions in Ursula Von der Leyen’s Environmental Policies

Ursula Von der Leyen’s conflicting policies aim to reduce climate change but seem to worsen it by promoting trade agreements that harm local agriculture. French agricultural exports are in decline, exacerbated by the EU-Mercosur agreement, which contributes to Amazon deforestation. Recent postponement of anti-deforestation regulations highlights the clash between economic interests and environmental goals.

Ursula Von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, faces criticism for her contradictory policies on climate change. Her initiatives aimed at environmental protection are seen as exacerbating global warming, particularly through trade agreements that undermine local agriculture in France. Recent reports highlight a significant decline in the competitiveness of French agricultural exports, dropping from 12 billion euros trade surplus in 2012 to 5.3 billion euros now. The EU’s free trade agreement with Mercosur allows increased imports of beef and soy, which contribute to deforestation in the Amazon, further complicating climate goals. Despite knowing the implications, Von der Leyen’s administration postponed the enforcement of an anti-deforestation regulation to December 2025, prioritizing economic interests over environmental commitments.

The article discusses the impact of Ursula Von der Leyen’s policies on climate and agriculture within the European context. It emphasizes the trade-offs made between economic growth and environmental sustainability, illustrating the urgent problems in French agriculture under the pressures of globalization and trade agreements. France’s decreased competitiveness in agriculture and challenges posed by the EU-Mercosur trade deal highlight broader issues of food sovereignty and ecological responsibility.

In summary, Ursula Von der Leyen’s policies reflect a stark contradiction between the EU’s environmental commitments and its trade practices. As agricultural exports dwindle and international trade agreements prioritize economic gain, France’s food sovereignty is jeopardized, raising critical questions about the EU’s role in combating climate change effectively.

Original Source: www.humanite.fr