Administrative strike in France highlights pressure on rural vets

Late March, the French veterinary practitioner’s union (SNVEL) called for an administrative strike in response to significant delays in payments linked to the national vaccination campaign against Lumpy Skin Disease. For months, veterinary practitioners have been heavily mobilised to protect the French cattle population, often at the cost of reduced routine activity and with substantial upfront expenses. Despite repeated warnings, many practices are still waiting to be reimbursed, creating growing financial pressure.

A responsible but firm response

Rather than halting essential services, veterinarians have opted for a targeted administrative strike. Vaccination activities continue to ensure animal health and disease control, but data reporting to authorities has been suspended until payments are made. The message is clear: “no payment, no data.” Without access to field data, authorities lose visibility over the campaign – an intentional lever to prompt action while maintaining biosecurity.

Financial pressure on veterinary practices

The situation is placing many veterinary practices – particularly in the livestock sector – under severe financial strain. Cash flow issues are becoming critical, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of veterinary services in rural areas. Initial discussions early April with the Ministry of Agriculture have led to a proposal to reimburse more than 50% of outstanding payments within a month. While this is seen as a positive signal, it has not yet fully reassured practitioners, who are seeking clear guarantees on the full payment timeline.

'Highlighting a wider challenge across Europe'

‘This situation highlights a wider challenge across Europe: ensuring that veterinarians involved in public health missions are adequately supported,’ stressed Julien Le Tual, cattle practitioner from France and vice president of the Union of European veterinary practitioners (UEVP). ‘The continuity of disease surveillance, prevention and control depends on a stable and well-resourced veterinary workforce, particularly in rural areas where shortages are already a concern.’