Corsican farmers block major ports over drought relief disputes

Hundreds of farmers in Corsica have blocked the major ports of Bastia and Ajaccio to protest insufficient state aid following a severe summer of heatwaves and drought. The protesters, organized by a spontaneous inter-union group including FDSEA, Jeunes Agriculteurs, and Coordination Rurale, are demanding immediate financial assistance and long-term improvements to the island's water supply.

The dispute centers on a €1.3 million allocation for Corsica from a national €235 million agricultural aid fund, which farmers argue is inadequate given the economic damage to livestock and crops. Demonstrations included burning tires, using tractors and concrete blocks to obstruct roads, and the symbolic occupation of the Haute-Corse prefecture. Eight schools were also affected by the blockades.

Following meetings with local prefectures, a meeting has been scheduled with the Ministry of Agriculture's cabinet for September 30, 2026. However, several unions remain dissatisfied, demanding a direct meeting with Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard. Jean-Baptiste Arena, president of the Chamber of Agriculture, warned that the movement could intensify if the upcoming ministerial response fails to meet expectations.