Agri­cul­ture is under pres­sure

The number of family farms is shrinking and dependence on migrant labour is increasing. Ensuring fair labour standards is becoming increasingly important, according to the European Committee of the Regions. Posted workers usually have long working days with high performance requirements, but gaps exist in social security and occupational safety. Independent reporting bodies are needed to monitor working conditions, particularly in the supply chains, which, with the support of trade unions, will ensure that all agricultural workers are adequately represented and protected.

This is because the employees’ need for protection is high. The number of accidents, fatal injuries and poisonings caused by pesticides is higher amongst agricultural workers than in other occupational groups1 and it is even higher amongst migrant workers than amongst domestic workers.2 Climate change is putting an increasing strain on working in the fields through heat and radiation. A study by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work also points to the high prevalence of musculoskeletal problems.3

Social insur­ance helps

Farmers can find help. In Germany, the SVLFG as agricultural social insurance institution can provide specific information about risk factors and risk assessment guidance, as well as programmes for preventing illnesses. Products that increase occupational safety will be subsidised.

No social secu­rity, no money!

The EU recently introduced a “social conditionality” instrument to combat social dumping. This instrument is part of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), and links EU funding to compliance with social legislation. As part of the recent CAP reforms, it stipulates that from this year onwards, non-compliance with labour and occupational safety and health rules will result in reductions in the payments granted. A risk of unfair competition still exists here, as the member states can decide on the scope of the sanctions by themselves.