The impact of COVID-19 on fisheries and aquaculture food systems. Possible responses

The purpose of this information paper is to update information on the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the fisheries and aquaculture sector and the measures taken, to inform on the ongoing impact on the fisheries and aquaculture food systems, and responses from seafood providers and governments to counteract the negative impacts on seafood chains.

How to feed the world in times of pandemics and climate change?

The 13th Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) in 2021 is seeking recommendations, guided by four questions about “How to Feed the World in Times of Pandemics and Climate Change?”: 1) How can food systems emerge strengthened from the COVID-19 pandemic? 2) How can the agricultural sector contribute to preventing further pandemics? 3) How can food systems become more climate-resilient? 4) How can food systems contribute to climate change mitigation better than before? In this brief, the four questions posed by the GFFA are addressed from the perspective of livestock systems. 

Digital finance and inclusion in the time of COVID-19

The aim of this study is to illustrate the opportunities and risks associated with the surge in uptake and use of digital financial service, providing ideas on how to leverage the paradigm changes affecting the overall approach and perspective towards digital financial services – on the part of various stakeholders – to advance financial inclusion and development. It also seeks to showcase how digital financial services have been used – in both traditional and innovative ways – to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on economies and societies, by both public and private actors.

Series: The agrifood system and the challenges of COVID-19

Differential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women and its connection to the pillars of the agrifood system

The objective of the text is to reflect on the current scenario faced by the most vulnerable women, and the measures that must be implemented to reduce their impacts. In addition, an analysis of the current situation of rural women is made, in qualitative terms. Finally, some of the public policy measures that are being taken by the states of the region to address the challenges described are described.

Series: The agrifood system and the challenges of COVID-19

Characteristics and determining factors of consumer food preferences in Latin America and the Caribbean: COVID-19 challenge

The objective of the text is to present the available evidence about consumption and food preferences, in the context of overweight and obesity, based on findings in seven countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. A description of the determinants of food preferences and consumption is made, in addition to some of the public policies implemented to influence these determinants. Finally, general reflections are presented from the cases analyzed and the current context of the COVID-19 pandemic.