ESPOL was delighted to welcome two alumni from the Bachelor’s programme in European Political Science for a guest lecture in the European Environmental Governance course.
The Common Agricultural Policy at the heart of an Alumni guest lecture at ESPOL
On Wednesday, March 11, Gauthier Mesa and Étienne Ducroquet, alumni of ESPOL’s European Politics Bachelor’s programme (class of 2020–2023), returned to campus to share their expertise on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) with third-year undergraduate students.
An intervention as part of the European Environmental Governance course
The session took place within the European Environmental Governance course, taught by Joseph Earsom, Assistant Professor in Environmental and Climate Politics and Director of the Master’s in Climate and Sustainability Politics at ESPOL.
The session began with an introduction to the links between agriculture and the environment. Today, the agri-food system represents a major sector in Europe, with nearly 40 million jobs and an estimated value of €117 billion in 2020. This raises a key public policy question: how can greenhouse gas emissions be reduced and biodiversity loss limited while ensuring viable economic conditions for farmers and preserving citizens’ purchasing power?
Two complementary paths: research and field experience
Following this introduction, Gauthier Mesa and Étienne Ducroquet presented the main challenges of the Common Agricultural Policy, drawing on their respective professional experiences.
After completing a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Public Policy at Sciences Po Paris, including a work-study placement at the Multilateral Development and Climate Financing Office (Directorate General of the Treasury), Gauthier Mesa is currently pursuing a second-year research Master’s degree in Economics and Humanities at Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne.
Étienne Ducroquet has developed strong field expertise. He is currently a farm manager in the Pas-de-Calais region and has also gained experience in public affairs, notably during a year-long work-study position as a Public Affairs Officer within the network of Chambers of Agriculture.
Understanding the challenges of the Common Agricultural Policy
During their presentation, the speakers addressed the key challenges facing the Common Agricultural Policy and the delicate balance it must strike. In particular, they discussed the tensions between environmental protection, fair remuneration for farmers, and maintaining consumers’ purchasing power.
The discussion explored several aspects of the issue, including the current state of the agricultural sector in France, the financial mechanisms of the CAP, its historical development, and prospects for its future.
The session concluded with a Q&A session, during which students had the opportunity to ask questions and further explore the topics discussed.
ESPOL is always delighted to welcome members of its Alumni network back to campus and warmly thanks Étienne Ducroquet and Gauthier Mesa for their insightful contribution!
