Country experiences shared during a special event at UNFSS+2  

The special event “Governance for agrifood systems transformation”, held in the framework of the UNFSS+2 Stocktaking Moment, brought together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the critical role of governance in ensuring that institutions, legal frameworks, and collective action at all levels lead to the desired transformation of our food systems. 

The discussion highlighted how effective governance is vital for agrifood systems transformation, with concrete examples of challenges and successful practices drawn from experience in different countries (namely Lebanon, Indonesia, Uganda, and Switzerland).  

Inclusive participation, human rights-based approaches, cross-sectoral coordination, and evidence-based decision-making are key elements in achieving equitable, resilient, and sustainable food systems. Parliaments, political commitment, and strong leadership play crucial roles in supporting and implementing agrifood systems transformation, while innovative and decentralized approaches are essential to accommodate diverse contexts and maximize impact at scale. 

More specifically, parliaments have an important role to play in supporting agrifood systems transformation, by ensuring that the required legislation, accountability, and budgeting are in place. 

Cross-sectoral coordination and decision-making mechanisms need clear procedures to ensure inclusive participation, accountability and transparency. Capacity building and empowerment of actors is needed to balance different interests and opportunities to participate and influence decisions. 

Furthermore, innovative evidenceis needed to help buildashared understanding on what agriood systems transformation means in practice, addressing possible trade-offs and maximizing synergies, thus allowing the engagement of all actors. 

In doing all of this, the right to food needs to be protected. Taking a human-rights approach in transforming agrifood systems is essential, in particular for the implementation of actions that incorporate the interests and needs of all people, including groups in the most vulnerable situations. 

Further information about the event and the recording of the session are available on the UNFSS+2 official website at this link.