Episode 18 of Food for Europe takes a long look at agriculture in the Czech Republic, following its assumption of the six-month rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Like all EU member states, Czechia is trapped in a storm of events outside its control, with farmers badly hit by soaring fuel and energy bills, rising inflation and a summer drought. And of course, by the consequences of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, which is just a few hundred kilometres due east.

So how is the country coping? By training its eye, it seems, on future as well as present challenges. Its three main agricultural priorities focus on long-term issues: food security, plant protection (read mostly reducing harmful pesticides), and deforestation.

The Czech presidency comes as the date for the new Common Agricultural Policy (2023-2027) fast approaches. The new CAP is more environmentally rooted and has more support for smaller farms, and these ambitions are reflected in Czechia’s own farming strategic plan, with additional funding going to family-run and small enterprises. Good news, says this sector. Not so good, say the large enterprises, demanding recognition for their contribution to food security.

As well as covering these issues with key players, we report from the huge food fair, Breadwinner Land, that annually celebrates Czech agri-production