French Farmers Stage Protest in Poitiers, Demand Action on Lumpy Skin Disease – Urgent Breaking News
Poitiers, France – December 21, 2025 – Farmers in the Vienne region of France took to the streets of Poitiers yesterday, December 20th, in a vibrant and unusual protest against the government’s handling of the lumpy skin disease outbreak affecting cattle. The demonstration, organized by the Vienne Peasant Confederation with support from environmental and communist movements, highlights growing frustration over vaccination restrictions and slaughter policies. This is a developing story, and archyde.com is committed to bringing you the latest updates as they unfold. This breaking news event underscores the critical need for effective agricultural policy and proactive disease management.
Farmers protest in Poitiers, wearing cow masks to symbolize their concerns. (Credit: Marine Nadal – France Télévisions)
“Yes to Bocage, No to Felling” – Farmers Voice Their Concerns
Around forty protestors, many donning cow head masks and carrying signs, marched through Poitiers, chanting slogans like “Yes to bocage, no to felling.” The protest isn’t simply about the disease itself; it’s about a perceived lack of trust and a feeling of being unheard by the government. The Confédération paysanne de la Vienne is specifically calling for an expansion of vaccination access, currently limited to within 50km of affected farms. They argue that a wider vaccination program, even if not compulsory, is crucial to effectively controlling the spread of the disease.
Lumpy Skin Disease: A Growing Threat to French Agriculture
Lumpy skin disease, first detected in France in the summer of 2025, causes fever, skin nodules, and can lead to significant economic losses for farmers due to reduced milk production and trade restrictions. While a vaccine exists, the government’s current strategy focuses on culling infected animals and establishing control zones. This approach is deeply unpopular with many farmers, who fear the devastating impact of widespread slaughter on their livelihoods and the future of their farms. The disease, transmitted by insects and direct contact, poses a significant threat to the livestock industry, and the current response is being scrutinized for its effectiveness.
Nicolas Fortin, national secretary of the Peasant Confederation, explains the farmers’ concerns. (Credit: Marine Nadal – France Télévisions)
“We Didn’t Get Anything We Asked For” – A Breeder’s Plea
Nicolas Fortin, a breeder from La Puye (Vienna) and national secretary of the Peasant Confederation, expressed deep disappointment with the government’s response. “We are in a situation today where veterinarians are explaining to us that we should not treat animals. Today, in France, we have decided not to treat animals,” he stated. Fortin emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that six months after initial measures were implemented, the disease remains uncontrolled. He also highlighted the difficult position farmers are in, fearing total slaughter even if vaccination carries potential risks. “As a breeder, even if vaccination could have harmful effects, there are still very many of us who want to vaccinate due to the fear of total slaughter.”
Beyond the Immediate Crisis: The Need for Sustainable Livestock Policies
The protest also extends beyond the immediate issue of lumpy skin disease. The Peasant Confederation is advocating for policies that promote the relocalization of livestock sectors, aiming for fairer incomes for farmers and greater food security, reducing reliance on international trade. This demand reflects a broader movement towards more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. The current crisis has exposed vulnerabilities in the French livestock supply chain and sparked a debate about the long-term viability of current farming practices. Investing in preventative measures, supporting local producers, and diversifying agricultural systems are crucial steps towards building a more secure and sustainable future for French agriculture.
The Prime Minister has agreed to a new meeting with agricultural unions in early January to discuss the health policy surrounding the disease, offering a potential avenue for dialogue and resolution. However, the farmers remain skeptical, demanding concrete action and a willingness to reconsider the current approach. The situation remains fluid, and archyde.com will continue to provide comprehensive coverage of this important story, offering insights into the challenges facing French farmers and the broader implications for the agricultural sector. Stay tuned for further updates and in-depth analysis as this breaking news develops.
