French Farmers Take to the Streets in Protest Over Culling of Diseased Cows
A group of French farmers, backed by several union organizations including the Peasant Confederation, has expressed outrage over the mass culling of cows infected with nodular dermatitis, also known as lumpy skin disease. The cull, which took place on Friday under police protection, has been met with widespread condemnation from farmers and animal welfare groups.
Described as "more scary than the illness itself," the culls have sparked fears that they are a heavy-handed approach to addressing the outbreak. Critics argue that targeted vaccination efforts would be more effective in controlling the spread of the disease, rather than resorting to mass slaughter.
The situation highlights the deep-seated tensions between farmers and authorities over issues of animal welfare and public health. As one farmer noted, "We're not against fighting the disease, but we need a more humane approach." The cull has sparked heated debates in France's agricultural sector, with many questioning the efficacy and ethics of such measures.
In response to the growing protests, veterinarians have emphasized the importance of protecting human and animal health. However, it appears that their efforts may not be enough to alleviate the concerns of French farmers, who are demanding a more nuanced approach to addressing the outbreak.
A group of French farmers, backed by several union organizations including the Peasant Confederation, has expressed outrage over the mass culling of cows infected with nodular dermatitis, also known as lumpy skin disease. The cull, which took place on Friday under police protection, has been met with widespread condemnation from farmers and animal welfare groups.
Described as "more scary than the illness itself," the culls have sparked fears that they are a heavy-handed approach to addressing the outbreak. Critics argue that targeted vaccination efforts would be more effective in controlling the spread of the disease, rather than resorting to mass slaughter.
The situation highlights the deep-seated tensions between farmers and authorities over issues of animal welfare and public health. As one farmer noted, "We're not against fighting the disease, but we need a more humane approach." The cull has sparked heated debates in France's agricultural sector, with many questioning the efficacy and ethics of such measures.
In response to the growing protests, veterinarians have emphasized the importance of protecting human and animal health. However, it appears that their efforts may not be enough to alleviate the concerns of French farmers, who are demanding a more nuanced approach to addressing the outbreak.