As of 2024, the global farming community is facing unprecedented challenges, demanding our unwavering support. Farmers, who constitute the backbone of the agricultural industry, are grappling with a myriad of issues that threaten their livelihoods and food security worldwide. From the agrarian crisis impacting the diaspora community to protests against unfair farming laws, the plight of farmers cannot be ignored. This article sheds light on the struggles faced by farmers and emphasizes the need for solidarity and action to stand with farmers and support their cause.
Vandana Shiva’s Insights
Renowned activist Vandana Shiva provides invaluable insights into the current state of farmers in her interview on Russell Band’s channel. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges farmers face, we have included the video, which delves deeper into the subject. Vandana Shiva’s expertise helps us comprehend the gravity of the situation and the urgency of standing with farmers.
WEDNESDAYS WORLD STANDS WITH FARMERS
We believe that just as we should have green clothing that we should have access to cleaner foods. - Wednesday
The Indian Farmer Protests
In 2020, the Indian government introduced three controversial farming laws, loosening market restrictions and potentially leaving small-scale farmers vulnerable to large corporations. This move sparked widespread protests and strikes in 2021, with hundreds of thousands of farmers and peasants taking to the streets of Delhi. The protesters demanded the repeal of the laws and the implementation of a Minimum Support Price bill to safeguard their future. The UK government’s complicity in promoting market reforms and providing expertise to the Indian government has drawn criticism and raised concerns about the role of corporate giants in the agriculture sector.
Stand With Farmers: Advocating for Change
Stand With Farmers is an organisation dedicated to collating data that highlights the profound impact of the agrarian crisis on the diaspora community. Through their efforts, they aim to shed light on the challenges faced by farmers and raise awareness about the ongoing Farmers’ protests.
Taking Action
To support India’s farmers, it is essential to take action. Stand With Farmers has initiated several steps, including writing to UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and urging members and supporters to contact their MPs. Key demands include revising the UK’s aid approach to India, particularly regarding agriculture, and halting the export of banned pesticides to India. Additionally, the organization encourages supporters to create banners and signs, demonstrating solidarity with the protesting farmers in India.
Land Worker Alliance have also been supporting Indian farmers since 2021
Riverford Organic Farm: Championing Fairness
British Riverford Organic Farm Riverford is an organization that understands the challenges faced by British fruit and vegetable farmers, with almost half of them fearing closure within the next year. They have first-hand experience of the uncertainty farmers live with, including inconsistent payments and unpredictable demand for their crops. Drawing from their own farming background and years of being mistreated by supermarkets, Riverford has developed a supply chain for their veg boxes. This transparent and fair system ensures that farmers are treated equitably, creating a sustainable and ethical approach to food production. They now have set up a movement so that all British farmers get fair treatment.
Supporting the Cause
You can help the cause by sending a letter to your local MP using a mock up letter they have created. By voicing your concerns and advocating for fair treatment of farmers, you play a crucial role in bringing about positive change.
The Dutch Farmers’ Protests
The Dutch farmers have been protesting against various issues, including strict environmental regulations and proposed policies affecting their agricultural practices. They feel that these regulations and policies are burdensome and threaten their livelihoods. The protests aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by Dutch farmers and advocate for more farmer-friendly policies.
In conclusion, farmers across the world are in urgent need of our support. By standing with farmers, advocating for fair policies, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, we can contribute to a more just and secure future for farming communities globally. Wednesday’s world stands with farmers—let’s join hands and make a difference.