Speaking to Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Hansen rejected accusations that the revised Common Agricultural Policy would significantly weaken environmental and conservation standards. “Environmental protection will look different in the future, but it is not being abolished,” he said, adding that the European Commission remains firmly committed to steering the overall direction of sustainable farming.
Hansen also emphasised the need to attract more young people into farming. He argued the profession needs a better image and stronger incentives, for instance, proposing an EU scholarship for young farmers with innovative ideas for the sector. His goal is to raise the proportion of farmers under the age of 40 rise from the current 12% to 15%.
