The common agricultural policy at a glance

The common agricultural policy supports farmers and ensures Europe’s food security.

Aims of the common agricultural policy

Launched in 1962, the EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP) is a partnership between agriculture and society, and between Europe and its farmers. It aims to:

• support farmers and improve agricultural productivity, ensuring a stable supply of affordable food;
• safeguard European Union farmers to make a reasonable living;
• help tackle climate change and the sustainable management of natural resources;
• maintain rural areas and landscapes across the EU;
• keep the rural economy alive by promoting jobs in farming, agri-food industries and associated sectors.

The CAP is a common policy for all EU countries. It is managed and funded at European level from the resources of the EU’s budget.