How the cap impacts your life

The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) is one of the most important instruments of the European Union, shaping the way our food is produced, how rural communities evolve, and how Europe responds to challenges such as biodiversity loss and climate change. However, discussions about the CAP often focus only on technical details, making it feel remote from the everyday concerns of citizens. In this section, we will show you how this policy transforms your life, whether you live in a city or in the countryside.

In this section, we highlight the many ways the CAP affects you, whether you live in a city or the countryside. You will also find useful resources and links, including information tailored for young farmers who are exploring their role in the future of European agriculture. 

How the CAP Affects You (Whether You’re a Farmer or Not)

Protecting the Environment and Biodiversity
Over the years, environmental sustainability has become central to the CAP. Mandatory rules (conditionality) require practices like crop rotation, buffer strips, and maintaining soil cover. Plus, voluntary agri-environmental measures reward farmers who go further by adopting nature-friendly practices.

Supporting Rural Development
Through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD), CAP invests over €200 billion to revitalize rural economies, fund renewable energy, protect the environment, and enhance quality of life in rural areas.

Ensuring Access to Safe, Affordable, and Nutritious Food
By supporting agricultural productivity and market stability, CAP helps secure the European food supply. Since 1962, CAP has evolved to safeguard both food affordability and productivity.

Promoting Generational Renewal
Recognising the importance of attracting new farmers, the CAP 2023–27 includes targeted measures: countries must use at least 3% of their direct payments budget for young farmers (e.g., via installation grants, income supplements, or start-up aid).

Stabilising Farmers’ Incomes
CAP provides direct payments to farmers, helping them earn a fair living and ensuring affordable food for all Europeans. It also addresses unforeseen shocks—like price drops or health scares—through market measures.

Quick Access to Helpful Resources

  • Overview of the CAP: Get the essentials – history, objectives, and how the policy works today, on the EU’s “CAP at a glance” page.
  • Support for Young Farmers: Explore targeted opportunities such as Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers (CISYF) and rural development start-up aid.
  • CAP National Strategic Plans: Monitor how each EU country is implementing the CAP 2023–27.
  • Questions & Answers on the CAP: Quick explanations for citizens who want the essentials without technical jargon.
  • CAP Results Dashboard: Interactive data on spending, outcomes, and performance across Europe.