Highlights

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Despite being one of the wealthiest regions in the world, around 16% of the EU's population is living on or near the poverty line. On 27 September, agriculture ministers discussed amendments to the current scheme for distribution of free food to the most deprived persons in the EU.

The subject is an important issue to the Belgian presidency in that it underlines the principle of European solidarity and demonstrates that the EU is capable of delivering targeted aid for socially excluded and marginal populations.

The economic crisis and rising food prices has increased the number of poor people in Europe. The Commission calls for an enhanced budget for the scheme and proposes a budget of 500 million euros a year in EU contribution. Projects will be co-financed with member states, the EU contribution representing 75% to 90% of the total budget.

More than 13 million people in the European Union benefited from the food programme last year. The aid is distributed through charities and local social services. According to the proposed programme member states would have a free choice of the foodstuff to be distributed, based on nutritional considerations. Products will be provided from surplus stocks or purchased on the market.

More information:
Press release (pdf)
Public debate 
Webcast of press conference