European Food Security and Impact of Ukraine

The full-scale war in Ukraine caused a significant aggravation of the food problem not only in Ukraine, but also in many regions of the world, in particular in Europe. On 13 February 2024, a working lunch entitled “European Food Security and Impact of Ukraine” was held. The event was organized by the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers (ZPP) in partnership with SME Europe of the European People’s Party (EPP), which sits in the European Parliament.

Among the lecturers was Member of the European Parliament and President of SME Europe Ivan Stefanec, European Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski, Vice President of the Union of Entrepreneurs and Employers Marcin Nowacki, Head of the Brussels Office of the Ukrainian Business and Trade Association (UBTA) Nazar Bobitski, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, trade and agriculture of Ukraine Taras Kachka, as well as European economists and members of the European Parliament.

Strategic importance of dialogue

The meeting discussed the importance of European food security, especially in the context of a full-scale war in Ukraine. Ivan Stefanec emphasized the title of Ukraine as “the granary of Europe” and stressed the importance of supporting the agricultural sector in this difficult time for it.

Particular attention was paid to the concern of European farmers regarding the sharp decrease in the cost of grain production in the EU due to the increase in Ukrainian exports. Members of the European Parliament emphasized the strategic importance of dialogue in the field of EU agriculture and the need for agreed standards between Ukraine and other trading partners. This will ensure fair competition for EU farmers.

Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine, also emphasized the logistical problems faced by traders today. In general, Kachka emphasized the importance of strategic decisions to ensure the stability of cooperation between Ukraine and EU countries in the food sector.

The debate ended on a positive note for Ukraine. The participants noted the importance of supporting the Ukrainian economy in this difficult time. This indicates the intentions of the European Parliament and EU organizations to promote the establishment of trade relations with Ukraine.

Opinion of lawyers

Dmytro Syrota, managing partner of Syrota, Dzis, Melnyk and Partners, expressed his opinion on this event.

To summarize the debate, it is important to note its significance, but I wonder whether it will help solve the main problem today – the blocking of the border on the Polish side. Frankly speaking, such actions by Polish farmers are a gross violation of the law in almost all civilized countries. For example, in the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the perpetrators of such actions could be punished by imprisonment for up to 15 years. I am convinced that Polish law has a similar provision.

However, I am not even talking about criminal liability, but about the blocking of numerous transportation arteries and logistics chains that are vital not only for the Ukrainian economy but also for the frontline as a whole. Thus, even trucks with military cargo are no longer allowed to cross the border. This position of the Polish protesters is surprising to say the least.

Of course, there are many more problems and they pose a direct threat not only to Ukraine but also to European countries. The debate participants discussed some of them very carefully, but effective solutions are needed today. We hope that they will be adopted and implemented, because we all have a common enemy, and he definitely does not drive grain trucks.