Equalization of Direct Payments in Poland to the Level Applicable in Other EU countries

Abstract

The paper tackles the problem of making direct payments in the EU countries more equal. Two sets of indices and their evolution are being presented: payment rates per product and per hectare of eligible area. The need of redistribution of direct payments is being stressed, followed by the discussion on different scenarios of distribution among Member States. The model finally accepted by the EU institutions and Member States is presented, as well as calculations of shifts in per hectare rates due to direct payments redistribution. The results show increase of direct payments rate in Poland, but it is still slightly below the EU average.