Presidential Hopefuls Engage Young Farmers on Key Issues at 2026 Congress in Bourg-en-Bresse

The 59th Young Farmers Congress in Bourg-en-Bresse, held on June 5, 2026, has become a focal point for political engagement and debate among presidential candidates and representatives as France prepares for the 2027 elections. The event spotlighted the central concerns of the agricultural sector with a strong emphasis on water management, climate change, and European policy.

Bruno Retailleau, a prominent political figure, passionately defended controversial mega-basins as critical for combating the rising challenges posed by heat and drought. He urged an end to ideological resistance against water storage, stating, “Tomorrow, we will have more heat and drought; if we deny our farmers access to water, it’s over,” a message that resonated with many attendees.

Conversely, ecologist candidate Marine Tondelier clarified the ecologists’ stance, emphasizing that they do not oppose water storage outright but criticize unsustainable practices that overlook water scarcity realities. This position, however, drew some discontent from the audience. Aurélie Trouvé, representing La France Insoumise (LFI), similarly faced criticism from attendees.

The congress also addressed broader geopolitical concerns, including debates on Ukraine’s integration into the European Union. Jean-Philippe Tanguy warned of potential adverse effects on French farmers, while Gabriel Attal offered a contrasting positive perspective, highlighting the EU as both a market and a supporter through the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Attal additionally commented on the notable absence of top National Rally (RN) leaders like Jordan Bardella and Marine Le Pen, suggesting this absence reflected poorly on the event.

Beyond debates, Retailleau proposed constitutional changes to formally recognize agriculture as a key national interest, underscoring the sector’s significance. The congress concluded with the election of Jocelyn Dubost as the new president of the Young Farmers, symbolizing a call for political accountability regarding agricultural commitments.

As the political pre-campaign period accelerates toward summer, this congress provided a pivotal platform for political figures to connect with rural voters, laying important groundwork for the upcoming presidential race.