Peasant protests in Biberach: Tractors block streets and events!

In the run -up to the new year 2024, farmers in Biberach took to the streets to protest against various agricultural policy decisions. Numerous protesters blocked the traffic in the city with tractors, which led to significant disabilities. The proposal to carry out such actions in the summer months in order to possibly create more understanding among the population was expressed by some participants. An incident of the past week received special attention when some protesters tried to present themselves as innocent in court. Video recordings showed that during the protests there were conflicts with the police who were mentioned as an inglorious footnote in the ZDF annual review.

As a result of the ongoing protests, the event was canceled on political Ash Wednesday in Biberach. According to reports, the aggressive mood among the demonstrators was a central reason for this decision. Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Özdemir was looking for the dialogue with the protesters, but was reportedly exposed to a considerable risk. Several police officers were slightly injured in the protests and there were attacks on police vehicles. In order to keep the demonstration under control, the security forces used pepper spray and arrested a suspect.

Details on the protests and their surroundings

The creation also played a role in the political event that the demonstrators could violently penetrate the hall. The protest pressed, among other things, by storing a large dung heap in front of the event facility. In addition, farmers blocked streets with paving stones and sandbags, while dozens of tractors were parked. According to reports, a slice of a vehicle was hit by Minister Özdemir, and the police were forced to use batons.

The protests and the associated incident were not organized by the state farmers' association in Baden-Württemberg. Özdemir critically commented on the behavior of some demonstrators and clearly emphasized that these actions do not represent German agriculture. Reactions to the cancellation of the event also came from the Greens and the SPD, which questioned the security concerns.

With a view to the city of Biberach, however, it is also reported on positive developments, so that more green areas and benches are to be created on the market square. In addition, a new outdoor pool and sufficient parking spaces will be expected next spring.