EU policy for agriculture, food and rural areas

The European Union, now of 27 member states, varies widely within its boundaries. Still, there are common policies for agriculture, food and rural areas, although with many differences in relation to specific conditions in member states. Starting with the Mac Sharry reform in 1992, the EU is on a long-term path to freer and more open markets, with increased attention at EU and member-state levels to food quality, food safety and animal welfare as well as the environment and the development of rural areas. For farming, the EU's traditional market and price measures are now largely replaced by 'decoupled' direct income support. The Union is thus becoming a leader in food standards and rural policy. Many well-known experts have contributed their up-to-date knowledge to this book, which has been developed in close collaboration with government officials and scientists, and with Wageningen Business School courses. The book can be used for scientific and professional education at bachelor degree level, but could easily function as supporting text in master courses. Business executives, officials and non-governmental organisations will also find this book to be of interest at a time of new or renewed pressures on policies in all the above areas.