Global Forum on Food Security and Nutrition (FSN Forum)

This member contributed to:

    • Corinna Hawkes

      Agrifood Systems and Food Safety Division, FAO
      Italy

      Dear Paola, 

      please find the comments made by the FAO Urban Taskteam:

      1.The V0 draft introduces a conceptual framework informed by key principles established in previous HLPE-FSN reports (HLPE, 2017; HLPE, 2020).

      a) Do you find the proposed framework effective to highlight and discuss the key issues concerning urban and peri-urban food systems?

      While the current framework itself is fine, there are comment we would like to make:

      • There is room for improvement by expanding the framework by emphasizing the interconnectedness of rural, peri-urban, and urban elements in the framework, and showing that these elements are situated within a broader food system which simultaneously interacts with other ‘systems’ - social, economic, and environmental, in line with the UNFSS and FAO definitions. A clearer picture of the relationships between rural and urban/periurban food systems (urban-rural linkages) will allow for more informed recommendations. Note this refers to rural areas beyond the immediate territory of the city and indeed national boundaries – anywhere from where food is sourced and which may be impacted by urbanization. Our comments are not restricted to rural-urban linkages in the classical sense that it is all about the rural areas just outside of the city. The broader connections need to be understood and articulated. For example, the framework can recognize that the upstream part of food system may, by significant degree, happen in rural areas, regions within and outside national boundaries, something which was mentioned in the last chapters but not in the framework. It can also emphasize how rural transformation shapes U-PU food systems and vice versa, for example in terms of food demand, migration/commute and in the terms of livelihoods. In that sense, the framework can focus on broader understanding of food security and nutrition to showcase opportunities for environmental and social gain in urban food system transformation, themselves essential to support food security over the longer-term as aspects of sustainability - and provide more evidence for that.
      • Overall we would encourage the framework to a more solution-oriented, forward-looking approach for policymakers. The overall ‘challenge’ can be framed in terms of urban food systems as drivers of a wider food systems transformation, which itself can be a solution to interconnected crises like climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, conflict, and poverty. (Also, recommendations on tackling these issues  could be integrated into chapters 3, 5, 6, and 7 (e.g. illustrating how urban agriculture, forestry and greenspaces can have a role in mitigating urban heat islands and flooding, livelihood-related shocks and stress etc.) not only in urban but also in peri-urban and nearby rural areas.)
      • Additionally, it is recommended to integrate greater consideration of variation in urban contexts based on city typologies (small, intermediary, or metropolitan). The document falls short in highlighting the opportunities that small and intermediary cities have to better integrate food systems into urban planning. Therefore, consider adding a dedicated aspect to elucidate the diverse urban contexts associated with metropolitan, small, and intermediary cities. Small cities and towns serve as crucial hubs in strengthening rural-urban connections and facilitating the efficiency of value chains. Megacities with high density pose complexities in the transformation, but intermediary cities where growth is happening present an opportunity to safeguard land suitable for agriculture and truly incorporate food systems into urban planning.
      • Finally, incorporating more examples on integration of informality in different UPFS dimensions (e.g. street food vendors, markets, midstream) would offer valuable guidance to policy makers.

      b) Is this a useful conceptual framework to provide practical guidance for policymakers?

      This largely depends upon the policy makers and what they are looking to implement, but it was highlighted that if we imagine for example, policymakers being assigned to develop a food strategy at the local level, that they could struggle to understand the framework.

      With regard to reaching policymakers for the document as a whole, in terms of format and language, consider making the writing style less academic, and including more practical examples and guiding diagrams and boxes that summarize the problematic. If this is not possible, consider developing a more dedicated and succinct version of the product, potentially based on Chapter 6 and the forthcoming Chapter 7, to address policymakers more effectively and acknowledge the complexity of the framework and its potential difficulty for local authority policymakers.

      We recognize these comments may appear contradictory to the suggestions above of ensuring a broader approach is taken to understanding food security and nutrition, but believe this could be handled in how the framework is presented.

      c) Can you offer suggestions for examples to illustrate and facilitate the operationalization of the conceptual framework to address issues relevant for FSN?

      We agree that incorporating more practical examples is key, and also examples that illustrate diversity of U-PU systems. These examples can inspire policymakers by showcasing experiences from different cities. Especially in Chapter 5, you could reduce the current extensive discussion to include robust discussion on practical steps and strategies for implementation, to emphasize action and implementation. Likewise, you can consider illustrating Section 1.4 with more examples, similar to the approach in the next chapters, to make it more accessible and practical for policymakers.

      • The document could include more evidence/examples on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on urban food systems, and here is one FAO project to consider to incorporate:

      Country: Bangladesh (project reference: OSRO/BGD/008/WFP ) Title: Food security for households most affected by the COVID-19 crisis in at-risk low-income urban areas. Objective: To address the food security needs of selected beneficiaries in at-risk low-income urban areas of Dhaka and smaller urban municipalities near Dhaka, with a focus on establishing linkages with local smallholder farmers in semi-rural and rural areas of Dhaka North City Corporation. Link to the story (under the sub-title ‘Getting city farmers to grow and eat more vegetables)

      • You can further emphasize promoting job opportunities with decent working conditions for food-insecure households within U-PU food systems, and critical questions regarding formalizing informal workers and increasing living incomes and wages in the U-PU food sectors.
      • Include detailed examples of how cities are crafting comprehensive food strategies and policies and, implementing them through inclusive governance and food policy councils. Consider linking specific case studies, such as the Mexico City canteen example (its award-winning case study) or the approach adopted by Bordeaux Metropole and its food policy (council) [Bordeaux says yes to its new food policy](https://eurocities.eu/stories/bordeaux-says-yes-to-its-new-food-policy/ ).
      • Explore existing solutions in Latin America that support business formalization and greater access to social protection, such as Monotax (Uruguay) or Monotributo (Argentina).

      2. The report adopts the broader definition of food security (proposed by the HLPE-FSN in 2020), which includes six dimensions of food security: availability, access, utilization, stability, agency and sustainability.

      1. Does the V0 draft cover sufficiently the implications of this broader definition in urban and peri-urban food systems?

      The 'utilization' and 'stabilization' dimensions are the least addressed, thus it is suggested to give more attention to these dimensions in the report. It would be helpful to explain/define what these dimensions concretely means in the context of UPFS, and clarify the connection between food safety, dietary diversity, and ‘utilization’ dimension. Additionally, further elaboration on the 'agency' dimension is crucial, particularly as it is interconnected with addressing inequalities, a significant driver of disparity. You can provide examples of strategies that enhance awareness and agency, enabling these communities to actively shape their own food security and well-being. Connect examples with case studies rather than academic papers for a more practical illustration, such as highlighting how self-help groups in rural India and structures like Stokvels in South Africa and Chamas in Kenya contribute to long-term food security outcomes for U-PU residents.

      3. Are the trends/variables/elements identified in the draft report the key ones to strengthen urban and peri-urban food systems? If not, which other elements should be considered?

      a) Are there any other issues concerning urban and peri-urban food systems that have not been sufficiently covered in the draft report?

      • Trends/variables/elements around shocks and resilience:

      Consider incorporating more evidence and examples of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on urban food systems to strengthen the resilience aspect. Acknowledge the urgent need to reinforce resilience in the face of various shocks, including climate-related events, pandemics, and global economic crises. Emphasize the vulnerability of both urban and periurban food systems, disrupted supply chains, and the consequent impact on urban food security.

      Links:

      For Chapters 2 and 3, particularly Sections 2.4 and 3.2, consider a broader consideration of contexts, specifically incorporating discussions on fragile settings and protracted food crisis situations. Highlight opportunities that emerge when individuals with rural food and agriculture livelihoods are displaced or migrate to cities, presenting unique possibilities for food systems and related urban contexts.

      In Chapters 5, 6, and 7, include risk-sensitive policies and practices, as urban and peri-urban areas face higher exposure and vulnerabilities. Develop risk-informed and shock-responsive social protection schemes, nature-based solutions, and risk-proofed infrastructures and services to enhance the resilience and sustainability of urban food systems.

      • Trends on urban jobs:

      Highlight the critical and insufficiently presented points for how U-PU food systems could reduce poverty and inequalities. Emphasize aspects like greater job creation, decent working conditions, improved access to social services, and community empowerment in urban settings.

      • The key role of local and regional governments:

      It is recommended to underscore the crucial role of local governments in advancing sustainable urban food systems, and strategies that enhance the recognition of local governments in global, regional, and national food systems agendas should be included.

      • Trends regarding ecosystem services:

      Ecosystem services from UPA have been well described, but there is one service that has not been mentioned, and that is the capacity of agricultural areas to allow water to infiltrate aquifers. In the case of the city of Abidjan for example, agricultural fields allow water infiltration, which prevents saline water in the aquifer (consequence of the sea level rise).

      • Other remarks:
      • In Section 3.2.1,  Figure 3.2 and the related comments should be eliminated as they refer to outdated, preliminary, not validated and not cross-country comparable data.
      • In Section 3.2.2, it would be good to distinguish between food insecurity by gender of the individuals (like the one included in SOFI), and by gender of the head of the household like many case studies mentioned later in the text.

      b) Are topics under- or over-represented in relation to their importance?

      • It is recommended to emphasize the integration of food systems into existing planning and regulations and development of specific ordinances dedicated to urban and peri-urban food systems. Integrating food systems into local development plans secures national funding allocation, contributing to overall sustainability (refer to SOFI 2023 and FAO-UCL's "Integrating Food into Urban Planning, 2018"). A dedicated paragraph on the integration of food systems into urban and territorial planning is suggested.
      • Emphasize the point and provide examples on establishing partnerships with non-state actors, particularly private-public partnerships, which is crucial for unleashing the potential power of cities.
      • Consider providing additional information and examples to underscore the statement that not all components of the system are equally vulnerable to climate shocks, especially small-scale and informal actors.
      • Elevate the importance of cross-country and peer-to-peer learning as a powerful tool to encourage learning among cities and country representatives to foster increased participation in mainstreaming food systems in policies, planning, and actions.
      • Better highlight the growing connectivity and interlinkages across urban, peri-urban, and rural areas, referencing SOFI 2023. Address the issue of context specificity, ensuring a balanced perspective that includes diverse regions, particularly highlighting specificities like Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
      • Ensure Chapter 3.5 encompasses a broader scope, considering multiple shocks and stresses with systemic and territorial implications. Rename section 3.5 to "Multiple Shocks and Stresses Threatening and Impacting Urban and Peri-Urban Areas" to accurately represent the comprehensive nature of challenges faced by urban, peri-urban, and rural areas.

      4. Is there additional quantitative or qualitative data that should be included?

      a) Are there other references, publications, or traditional or different kind of knowledges, which should be considered? 

      5. Are there any redundant facts or statements that could be eliminated from the V0 draft?

      It would be good to differentiate and establish clearer links, especially regarding food environment factors, as there appears to be potential overlap between certain points in sections 3.4 and 4.2.

      We also have some additional comments about the structure of the document

      • Consider incorporating ‘decentralization’ in the “urban contexts” circle illustrated in Fig 1.4.
      • Consider renaming Chapter 4 to explicitly reflect the question it addresses: "What aspects of urban and peri-urban food systems need strengthening to achieve urban and peri-urban food security and nutrition?" This adjustment can create a clearer connection between the chapter's content and its overarching purpose.
      • Consider switching the order of Chapters 3 and 4, placing the comprehensive exploration of urban and peri-urban food systems in Chapter 4 before discussing challenges and dynamics in Chapter 3.
      • In Chapters 4, 5, and 6, which have already integrated methods for applying the conceptual framework, consider revising the titles to better reflect the primary questions the report aims to answer.
      • In Chapter 4, consider restructuring point 4.6.3 as the entire point 4.6., focusing on key elements of food systems nodes, while merging points 4.6.2, 4.6.4, and 4.6.6 into section 3.5 on shocks and stresses threatening and affecting food security and nutrition. Handle diversity under 4.6.5 separately due to its importance for resilience, food security, and nutrition.

      6. Could you suggest case studies and success stories from countries that were able to strengthen urban and peri-urban food systems? In particular, the HLPE-FSN would seek contributions on:

      a) evidence-based examples of successful interventions in urban and peri-urban food systems with the principles behind what made the process work;

      • **Iraq: OSRO/IRQ/902/EC**

      Objective: Contribute significantly to the sustainable food and agricultural livelihood security of rural and peri-urban populations in Ninevah Governorate.

      • **Syria: UNJP/SYR/025/UNJ**

      Objective: Strengthen urban and rural resilience and conditions for recovery by enhancing the capacity of local authorities, civil society, and communities to develop evidence-based policies and resilience programs.

      • **Nigeria (Three Projects):**

      *Restoring livelihoods of vulnerable populations to catastrophic food and nutrition insecurity in BAY*

      *Emergency food security and livelihood assistance to conflict-affected populations in Northeast Nigeria*

      *Improved production, availability, and access to nutritious food for vulnerable IDPs, returnees, and host communities*

      Common focus: Target populations with limited access to land, providing inputs for urban and peri-urban gardening to diversify diets and generate income.

      • **Somalia: "UN Joined Work on Building Resilience in Somalia"**

      Output 3: Households and producer groups supported to diversify and enhance livelihoods for improved income.

      Activities involve working with communities in each district to identify options for diversification in rural, peri-urban, and urban areas, particularly focusing on women's roles and minimizing risks. Examples include honey/beekeeping, poultry-raising, dairy production, and vegetable and fruit gardening.

      b) efforts made to enhance agency in urban and peri-urban food systems;

      • Consider citing the illustrative example outlined on page 133 of SOFI 2023, which discusses "Sub-national agrifood systems governance agreements among metropolitan, intermediary, and small cities in Peru." Lima has established the Food System Council of Metropolitan Lima (CONSIAL). The council has enacted several local ordinances to promote healthier urban food environments, urban agriculture, the use of public spaces for agroecology farmers’ markets, and the recovery of unsold food in wholesale markets. https://foodfoundation.org.uk/sites/default/files/2022-05/Surat_Citizen%20engagement%20presentation.pdf

      c) efforts made to enhance the right to food in urban and peri-urban settings;

      d) examples of circular economy and urban and peri-urban food system and climate change adaptation and mitigation, preferably beyond issues of production; and

      e) examples of national and local government collaboration on urban and peri-urban food systems.

       

    • As a FAO-ESN team, we would like to contribute to the report with a reference to our first-hand data collection on 60 territorial markets in 8 countries, carried out over the past year. The initiative was done using FAO methodology for mapping of territorial markets, which was developed as a direct response to 2016 CFS policy recommendations "Connecting Smallholders to Markets", referring to the need to collect comprehensive data on formal and informal markets, rural and urban and linked to local, national and regional food systems. 

      The initiative produced a valuable set of data on both retailers and consumers who attend these local, territorial markets, and the data can be disaggregated by gender, age, different food groups (and more). Gender inclusion is a key aspect in the methodology, because it also offers an interpretive tool - a synthetic indicator on Gender Inclusion. This indicator measures how inclusive a market is to women compared to men, by taking into consideration the gender income gap of the market retailers, and the gap between men and women retailers who do not have access to financial services. 

      The whole methodology is designed to inform policy-making processes that seek strategic entry points in the food systems for improving local diets and nutrition. We strongly believe that territorial markets represent this crucial entry point for working on the systemic change for increasing availability, access and desirability of healthy and diversified foods for low-income consumers. 

      In the attachment we are sharing a draft of a thematic brief titled “Territorial markets for women’s economic inclusion” (to be published soon by FAO) with gender-focused data analysis from the mapped markets in 3 countries. We do have more gender-specific data and can develop a more elaborative report if you consider this initiative as a valuable reference for the report.

      See the attachments: