The Ulster Farmers' Union's (UFU) became the newest member of the European Council of Young Farmers (CEJA) after their application for observer membership was approved by vote at CEJA's General Assembly on the 30th June 2026.

UFU joins the National Farmers Union of England and Wales (NFU) and National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) as observer members, ensuring representation from all countries across the United Kingdom at CEJA.  UFU's representation and participation in this dynamic network championing the interests of young farmers will be coordinated through their office in Brussels, the British Agriculture Bureau (BAB). This association with CEJA marks the beginning of a new important chapter for UFU, paving the way for increased collaboration across Europe and reinforcing their commitment to represent the next generation of farmers at an international level.

Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, through the Windsor Framework means that Northern Ireland remains in the EU’s single market for goods and is therefore aligned and directly affected by many rules and initiatives being developed in Brussels. This includes issues such as animal health and welfare and plant protection products. Therefore, it is as important now as it ever has been that Northern Ireland is a part of the discussion in Brussels.

CEJA is the representative organisation of young farmers across Europe, with over 30 member organisations that represent 22 EU-member states as well as third countries, such as the UK. CEJA's main objective is the promotion of a younger and innovative agricultural sector that creates good working and living conditions for young farmers.  Their key policy areas include access to land, access to credit, production rights and skills development.