Commissioner Christophe Hansen addressed the Deutscher Bauernverband New Year’s Reception on January 16, 2026, presenting his vision for the future Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Marking his first year in office, Hansen emphasized the need for predictability, investment security, and the ability to pass farms on to future generations as core pillars of the agricultural policy he supports.
A Vision Centered on Predictability and Support
Hansen outlined concrete financial commitments under the future CAP, highlighting a minimum ring-fenced budget of €300 billion for farmers, with at least 10% of each National and Regional Partnership Plan dedicated to rural development—equating to a floor of close to €49 billion, potentially rising to €63 billion. Additionally, he proposed mobilizing an extra €45 billion to support agricultural and rural communities. Complementary funds for competitiveness and research, totaling around €40 billion, aim to enhance biotechnology, bioeconomy, health, and agriculture sectors. This approach denotes a clear policy orientation favoring stable and sizable EU financial involvement to bolster farm competitiveness and rural vitality.
Addressing Gender and Generational Challenges
The Commissioner advanced inclusive policy measures aimed at improving fairness, particularly stressing women's involvement in agriculture. He drew attention to persistent productivity gaps and barriers faced by women farmers and introduced planned initiatives such as specific CAP support for women, agricultural relief services, and a platform promoting best practices in finance and leadership. This indicates increased regulatory focus on social inclusion within agricultural governance.
Regarding generational renewal, Hansen underlined its centrality to sustainability, combining economic pragmatism with environmental goals. He reaffirmed the Commission’s EU Strategy for Generational Renewal and supported instruments facilitating young farmers’ investments and access to infrastructure and services. These proposals imply stronger EU-level initiatives to counteract rural depopulation and ensure farm succession.
Impacted Stakeholders
Farmers, especially young and female growers, stand to gain from increased financial security, investment opportunities, and institutional support. Rural communities may benefit from allocated development funds and service improvement. Conversely, national authorities will need to adjust partnership plans and monitor compliance, potentially increasing administrative responsibilities. EU taxpayers may see heightened contributions toward these commitments. The agri-food industry could experience impacts related to competitiveness adjustments and innovation incentives.
Hansen’s speech, framed as a personal mandate rather than an institutional stance, outlined measurable budget commitments and strategic orientations that suggest an expansion of EU agricultural policy powers with a focus on sustainability, inclusion, and stability.