Aggressive mood

German farmers prevent Green Ash Wednesday

The German Greens have canceled their Ash Wednesday event in Biberach, Baden-Württemberg. The reason for this was an aggressive atmosphere at demonstrations in the surrounding area. In the run-up to the event, there had been massive protests and blockades, including by farmers.

According to its own information, the state farmers' association in Baden-Württemberg did not call for the protests or support them in the run-up to the event. Farmers had been protesting and blocking roads in Biberach since Wednesday morning. Dozens of tractors were parked on the access roads to the town hall. A large pile of manure was unloaded in front of the hall. Loud honking and music could be heard.

Police use pepper spray
There was also an incident during the protests in which the police used pepper spray against demonstrators to clear the way for two vehicles.

Impressions from Biberach:

The two vehicles then drove away from the town hall. A window was smashed on one of the vehicles. Protesters had previously blocked the road with cobblestones and sandbags.

All roads blocked
The chairman of the district farmers' association, Karl Endriß, said that it was almost impossible to reach the venue as there were protesters in the surrounding area. According to Endriß, various groups had called for the protests. The demonstrators were mainly farmers, but hauliers were also involved.

The moment of cancellation is greeted with celebration:

The Greens have been meeting in Biberach for years, where many prominent figures from the federal government were expected again this year. In addition to Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir, who is considered a promising candidate to succeed Minister President Winfried Kretschmann, Federal Chairwoman Ricarda Lang and veteran Jürgen Trittin were due to take to the lectern. Kretschmann should also be there.

Farmers in several European countries have been taking to the streets for weeks. They are also protesting against what they see as unfair competition with products from abroad. However, the demonstrations are repeatedly hijacked by right-wing groups.