Haut-Rhin Farmers Protest: Lumpy Skin Disease Demonstrations
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Farmers Rally in Munster, France, too support Livestock Breeders Affected by Lumpy Skin Disease Concerns
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Protest and Solidarity in Munster
Approximately 200 people, including around 40 breeders, gathered in Munster, France, on Sunday, December 21, 2025, to demonstrate support for farmers impacted by concerns surrounding lumpy skin disease (LSD). The presentation,characterized by the sound of cowbells and a banner reading “think of our farms,” operated without formal political or union affiliation.Notable attendees included Frédéric Bierry, president of the European Community of Alsace, and deputy Hubert Ott, as well as regional vice-president Denise B.
The rally followed the controversial culling of livestock as a preventative measure against the potential spread of lumpy skin disease. Florent Campello expressed the sentiment of many, stating the culling was ”necessary to conserve our herds,” and described the gathering as “unwavering support for these breeders.” Participants displayed photographs of their cows on a shed at the Christmas market as a tribute to the animals lost.
Lumpy Skin Disease and culling Measures
Lumpy skin disease is a viral disease affecting cattle and water buffalo, characterized by fever and skin nodules. While the disease poses a meaningful threat to livestock populations, its presence in the Grand est region of France has been a subject of debate.According to Emmanuel Aubry, only one suspected case was identified in the department, and subsequent testing yielded negative results.Despite this, preventative culling measures were implemented.
The gendarmerie reported conducting 43 checks of herd movements and 400 checks across the Grand Est region, indicating a heightened level of surveillance. The Confederation Paysanne, a French farmers’ union, has mobilized against the total slaughter of livestock, arguing that the measures are excessive given the limited evidence of the disease’s presence. DNA reports on the Confederation paysanne’s mobilization.
Controversy and Concerns
The culling of livestock has sparked considerable controversy, with breeders questioning the necessity of the measures given the limited confirmed cases of lumpy skin disease. The Confederation Paysanne argues that the blanket approach to culling is disproportionate and economically damaging to farmers. The discrepancy between the single suspected case (later negative) and the widespread culling raises questions about the risk assessment process and the justification for the preventative measures taken.
Understanding Lumpy Skin Disease
Lumpy
