Global disruptions, including climate change, conflict, environmental degradation and economic instability, are exposing vulnerabilities in food systems and highlighting the importance of locally rooted solutions. On 21 October 2026, IFOAM – Organics International and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), in collaboration with the Agroecology Coalition and within the Agroecology Promotion Programme (APP), organised a side event at FAO headquarters in Rome during the 54th Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS54).

Bringing together diplomats, civil society representatives, practitioners and institutional actors, the event explored how agroecology can strengthen food security, improve access to healthy diets and build resilience across food systems. Discussions addressed the conditions farmers need to transition to agroecological practices, the development of local markets and value chains, and the role of policies, finance and institutions in supporting wider transformation. Experiences from Kenya, Bangladesh and Benin illustrated approaches to connecting farmer-led initiatives with national policies and broader food-system change.

The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening local supply chains, ensuring fair remuneration for producers, improving access to extension services and directing public investment towards agroecological transitions. Speakers also emphasized inclusive governance, knowledge sharing and the participation of farmers, women and young people. The event concluded that moving from successful local initiatives to systemic change requires coordinated action across policies, markets, finance and institutions.