The European Commission has launched a new consultative body aimed at fostering open dialogue and addressing growing tensions in the agri-food sector. The European Board on Agriculture and Food (EBAF) is the first initiative of the new administration to promote consensus and support a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive agri-food system.
Fostering Collaboration Across Stakeholders
EBAF will include up to 30 organizations from three key stakeholder groups: farmers, food supply chain actors, and NGOs. The new board will build on the earlier Strategic Dialogue introduced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which faced criticism for its exclusive membership. To address these concerns, the Commission has opened an application process for new members, ensuring broader participation.
The board will play a crucial role in shaping the upcoming Vision for Agriculture and Food, a strategic document set to be unveiled in February 2025. The EBAF is set to meet multiple times annually and will serve a five-year mandate, with the first session expected shortly after its formation.
