Agroecology has gained international recognition, but translating policy commitments into changes in agricultural practices and food systems remains a central challenge. In this podcast discussion, representatives of FAO, Agroecology Europe, IFOAM and La Via Campesina examine whether agroecology is driving structural transformation or risks being adopted as a policy concept without bringing about substantive changes to food systems. The speakers explore the relationship between agroecology, organic agriculture and regenerative agriculture, highlighting their shared principles and differences in scope, certification and approaches to social and economic change. They emphasize that agroecology extends beyond farming techniques to include governance, power relations, farmers’ rights, food sovereignty and the organization of food markets.

The discussion explores how agroecology can contribute to food security, climate resilience and sustainable livelihoods. Speakers highlight the role of diversified farming systems in reducing dependence on external inputs, supporting biodiversity and improving soil health, while strengthening connections between producers and consumers. They also emphasize that food security depends not only on how food is produced, but also on how it is distributed, how accessible and affordable it is, what people eat and how much food is lost or wasted. Looking towards 2040, speakers point to several potential indicators of meaningful transformation, including more farmers and younger generations entering agriculture, more diverse landscapes, healthier ecosystems and stronger territorial food systems.