Livestock farmers protest against mass culling of animals due to foot-and-mouth disease

Livestock farmers in Cyprus are protesting against the ongoing mass culling of animals implemented to contain an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. On Thursday, agricultural organizations and affected producers met in Aradippou to coordinate their response to the state-mandated measures. Farmers argue that the culling of healthy animals is unnecessary and are instead calling for a nationwide vaccination program. A meeting has been scheduled between President Nikos Christodoulides and representatives of the agricultural sector to discuss these concerns. The Ministry of Agriculture has requested that the European Commission halt mass killings, though the Commission maintains that the current policy is necessary due to the high transmissibility of the disease. Farmers further contend that there are double standards, noting that the European Commission provided €12 million to the northern part of the island for disease management rather than ordering blanket slaughters. Complications have been reported during culling operations as farmers have reportedly obstructed Veterinary Services, prompting a redesign of field teams.