Behind the EAF network are farmers from across Europe, each bringing their own experience, challenges and perspectives to modern agriculture. With this interview series, we want to introduce the people behind the network, highlight the realities of their day-to-day work, and share how international exchange can strengthen farming across Europe.
This time, Wilhelm Bommers, farmer from Belgium, shares why he joined the EAF, what he values about the club, and which topics the network should focus on in the near future.
Why are you a member of the EAF?
It was twenty years ago, on the study trip to Andalusia, that I took part in an EAF event for the first time. I was immediately impressed by the exchange of ideas that took place there under the motto ‘Passion for Agriculture’.
What do you particularly value about the EAF?
Thanks to the club’s activities, I have been able to get to know agriculture in a wide variety of regions across Europe over the years. I have learnt about the difficulties our colleagues face in a wide range of climatic and soil conditions, and how they cope with them. I always find it fascinating to see how legal requirements, as well as political and social conditions, influence business decisions and developments.
Furthermore, I value the exchange with knowledgeable colleagues from a wide variety of backgrounds and with a diverse range of farm experiences. And I appreciate the opportunity to fit into the club as a person and to contribute my own ideas.
There seem to be country-specific characteristics that drive our sector forward. A willingness to take risks is one of them; decisiveness is another.
What has been your greatest insight gained from the EAF so far?
In arable farming, climate and soil are the primary factors determining how we operate. However, the development of farm structures is also significantly shaped by social and political conditions. I’ve also noticed that, particularly in the densely populated parts of Europe, the public keeps a very critical eye on how agriculture operates.
And, of course, it is the people themselves. There seem to be country-specific characteristics that drive our sector forward. A willingness to take risks is one of them; decisiveness is another.
Which issues must we absolutely discuss in the coming months?
In Europe, production conditions vary greatly across many sectors. Access to land, whether through leasing or purchase, cannot be easily changed. But I think it would be very interesting to examine cost structures in more detail, for example:
- prices of fertilisers, seeds and plant protection products,
- machinery and repair costs,
- labour costs and social security contributions,
- farm-saved seed regulations, and
- environmental regulations.
Who would you recommend the EAF to, and why?
I would recommend the EAF to people who are passionate about agriculture and have their finger on the pulse. They should be open to discussion, even on topics beyond specialist subjects, and seek to exchange experiences in order to share successes and failures. And very importantly: the EAF is a club, and members should get involved accordingly.
