On June 25, the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture (LCA) hosted a distinguished delegation from the Polish Chamber of Agriculture, led by President Wiktor Szmulewicz. During the meeting, key issues were discussed, including the strengthening of agricultural self-governance, international cooperation, and the representation of farmers’ interests within the European Union.
Dr. Arūnas Svitojus, President of the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture, welcomed the guests and expressed his appreciation for the longstanding, constructive cooperation with Polish colleagues. “Our Chambers share a common vision – to strengthen the voice of farmers in Europe. Decisions that are debated and taken jointly at the international level are much stronger and more effective in defending the interests of rural communities and farmers,” emphasized Dr. Svitojus.
The Polish Model: Legislation, Self-Governance, and Stable Funding
President of the Polish Chamber of Agriculture, Wiktor Szmulewicz, presented the Polish model of agricultural self-governance. “In Poland, the Law on Agricultural Chambers was adopted back in 1995. Agricultural Chambers operate in every voivodeship, forming the National Council of Agricultural Chambers – a nationwide representation of farmers’ self-governance. Funding for the chambers is based on a mandatory 2% agricultural tax contribution, collected by municipalities and transferred to the respective regional chambers. This system generates around 30 million PLN annually, enabling effective implementation of agricultural policy, consultations, legislative proposals, and the representation of farmers at both national and international levels.”
According to the President, in 2023 alone, the Polish Chambers submitted around 190 legislative proposals, covering direct payment systems, environmental regulation, land management, and more.
Focus on the New CAP Period and Strengthening Farmers’ Rights
During the meeting, both parties emphasized the need to unite efforts and coordinate positions in preparation for the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) period. It was agreed that only through joint dialogue between countries can greater attention from EU institutions be achieved toward the real needs of farmers.
A new legislative proposal currently under discussion in Poland was also presented – the establishment of a Farmers’ Rights Ombudsman, based on the model of the SME Ombudsman. “This would be an important step in strengthening the legal protection of farmers – both in resolving disputes and preventing abuse,” said Szmulewicz.
Polish Delegation Surprised by the Scope of LCA Activities – and the Lack of Delegated Functions
Members of the Polish delegation were pleasantly surprised by the wide range of activities undertaken by the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture, including numerous projects and active international engagement. However, they were equally surprised by the financial situation. Polish board member Witold Grunwald remarked: “I’m astonished that an institution operating under a specific law in Lithuania does not have any state-delegated functions. You submit more than 100 proposals to public authorities, evaluate hundreds of legal acts, and actively participate at the international level. This situation must change – you can draw on the experience of other national chambers and seek solutions both at national and EU levels.”
The Visit Strengthened Partnership
The meeting served not only as an opportunity to discuss current issues but also to strengthen bilateral partnership. The guests were introduced to the LCA’s structure, membership in international organizations, and ongoing projects. Both sides agreed that cooperation between the Lithuanian and Polish Chambers of Agriculture is of strategic importance – for representing farmers in Europe, exchanging experience, and strengthening rural development.
