French Farmers Blockade RN20 Tunnel to Andorra Over Livestock Disease Protests

French farmers from the Coordination Rurale de l’Ariège have launched an indefinite blockade of the RN20 at the Foix tunnel, a vital route into Andorra, restarting protests over the French government's response to contagious nodular dermatitis (DNC).

The action began on Monday at 11am, following a one-week pause after dismantling the previous ten-day blockade at the Sabart roundabout in Tarascon-sur-Ariège. Initial announcements had pointed to a Friday start, but organisers confirmed the Monday launch via social media, citing ongoing frustration despite a massive vaccination drive in the Ariège department. Protesters highlight the mandatory culling of 208 cows at the GAEC de Mouriscou farm in Les Bordes-sur-Arize on 9 December as a flashpoint, alongside what they call "ridiculous" economic aid—farms facing up to 50% revenue drops receive just €4,500 in compensation.

Spokesperson Sébastien Durand explained the shift from Tarascon aimed to limit disruption to local business between Tarascon and Ax-les-Thermes, while allowing farmers to vaccinate livestock. He described vaccinating nearly the entire department in 15 days as progress, but one demanded for over four months. The group plans a sustained presence of 50-100 people using tents and hay bale barriers "as long as fatigue allows and we're not removed," ahead of a 5 January meeting with the French prime minister. They have urged farmers, breeders and locals to join, arguing collective action is delivering results.

France's DIRSO South-West has set up diversions: passenger vehicles through central Foix with traffic agents, and heavy goods vehicles—including Andorran hauliers—via interchange 7 through Mirepoix and Lavelanet to interchange 12, with increased surveillance.

Some reports suggest the blockade will last at least until 5 January, while others emphasise its open-ended nature. Protesters also voice concerns over a potential EU-Mercosur deal that could import South American agricultural products. The action continues to affect Andorran commuters and transport.