EU again confirms massive cuts to food aid program for poor; 18 million people could be hit

[Washington Post]

The European Union confirmed plans Thursday to cut over three-quarters in funding of a €500 million ($690 million) program that helps feed 18 million of its poorest citizens. The EU’s farm commissioner said he was “appalled” that six nations continue to block the extension of the full program after New Year’s Day.

“It is a proof of egoism in an EU where we need solidarity more than ever,” Dacian Ciolos said after the meeting of EU farm ministers. “Solidarity should not only be with banks and financial systems, but also with the people that suffer from the economic crisis.” The reduced program of €113 million ($155 million) comes at a time of rising unemployment and consumer food prices as European countries try to slash budgets in the face of the economic crisis.

Lire : washingtonpost.com