The President Ursula von der Leyen received the final report of the Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture. Entitled “A Shared Prospect for Farming and Food in Europe,” the report, handed over by Professor Peter Strohschneider, presents a thorough assessment of the challenges and opportunities in the agri-food sector and offers recommendations to shape the European Commission’s Vision for Agriculture and Food during President von der Leyen’s next mandate.
Since its launch in January 2024, the Strategic Dialogue has brought together 29 diverse members representing interests across the agri-food chain. Through open and constructive engagement, they have built consensus on strategies to advance sustainable and resilient agri-food systems in the EU. The final report, unanimously endorsed by all members, highlights the need for collaboration across the sector and coherent policies to support economic, environmental, and social sustainability.
A key outcome of the report is its focus on the water sector, recognizing that sustainable agricultural practices have a direct impact on water use, resource efficiency, and quality. By aligning agri-food strategies with sustainable water management, the recommendations aim to improve water use efficiency, reduce pollution, and protect vital water resources, supporting the circular economy and environmental health.
Moving forward, the European Commission will closely consider these recommendations to develop a new platform that brings together agri-food sector actors, civil society, and the scientific community to continue shaping policies that benefit both agriculture and water systems.
This report emphasizes the importance of innovation, market-driven approaches, and policy coherence in ensuring that Europe’s agri-food systems are not only competitive and diverse but also sustainable and water-efficient.
Read the full statement here to learn more about the future of agri-food and water sustainability in Europe.
