"Live from Brussels as farmers across the European Union stage a large scale protest against the Mercosur trade deal and agricultural reforms on Thursday, December 18. It focuses on the South American agreement which farmers claim will flood the market and undercut domestic production. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to sign the deal at the weekend, despite opposition from the likes of France and Italy, among others. The demo also opposes changes to the post-2027 Common Agricultural Policy - including budget reforms and red tape. Organisers estimate around 10,000 participants, with the rally co-ordinated by Copa Cogeca, the umbrella body representing European farmers and agricultural co-operatives. The march is set to begin near Gare du Nord before moving towards the European Parliament, with around 40 agricultural organisations taking part from all 27 EU member states."