Day of Farmer’s Struggle

17 april 2026

Today is the international day of the Farmer’s Struggle. A day that symbolizes the unrest in the agricultural sector. Traditionally a day for protest, but in the current times more relevant than ever.

As stablebuilders, we work with farmers every day. We see their passion. Their perseverance. But also their concerns. The daily pressure of: regulatory changes, nitrogen policy, societal debates, and financial uncertainty. In our line of work we see many farmers who want to be more sustainable. They are willing to invest millions in innovations. New barn systems, emission reductions, welfare improvements—it requires enormous investments. Often, before the precise direction of government policy is clear. That is what makes it complicated.

Honestly, it is difficult to make future-proof choices when policies keep changing and uncertainty remains. How do you build a stable that has to last 20 years if you don’t know what requirements will apply in 5 years? How can society expect sustainability, but will not accept higher food prices? How can the sector take responsibility when the playing field is constantly shifting?

We ask a lot of our farmers. Maybe rightly so. But we need to be honest about the consequences and who pays the bill:
• Sustainable production costs money.
• A stable policy isn’t a luxury but a prerequisite.
• And innovation can only succeed if there’s a perspective.

We cannot keep saying ’the sector must change’ without providing clarity about how and under what conditions. For us, this day isn’t about conflict, but about collaboration. Farmers, government, supply chain partners, and consumers all have a role to play in answering the question, how do we make the transition feasible AND affordable? What do you think? Let’s have an open respectful discussion.