Committee on World Food Security

Making a difference in food security and nutrition

English

53rd Plenary Session of the
Committee on World Food Security

20–24 October 2025 | FAO headquarters, Rome, Italy

CFS 53 Visual Identity

Registration to CFS 53 Side Events are closed. Only participants who registered by 17.00 (CEST) of Wednesday, 22 October will be processed. Thank you for your understanding.

Time Side Events
08.30-09.45
SE01 | Red room | From policy to action: Investing in women for a just agrifood systems transformation
Abstract: Channeling investments and fostering partnerships to enable rural women to secure their livelihoods, rights, and resilience is key to building a better future for the people and the planet. This event highlights initiatives focused on sustainable investments and partnerships for food security and nutrition under the Joint Programme on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment (JP RWEE) and FAO’s Commit to Grow Equality (CGE) initiative. The JP RWEE, led by the Rome-based agencies and UN Women, works to strengthen gender-transformative legal frameworks, policies, and institutions, driving finance to rural women farmers and their cooperatives, and building resilience to social, economic and climate shocks. The CGE initiative calls on stakeholders to make tangible commitments to enhance gender equality and women’s and girls’ empowerment in agrifood systems. The JP RWEE supports the implementation of the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women’s and Girls’ Empowerment in the Context of Food Security and Nutrition that were endorsed in October 2023, thus reinforcing global efforts to tackle gender inequalities.
Organizers: FAO WFP IFAD UN Women Ireland Sweden Switzerland
Languages: English French Arabic Spanish
Catering: Yes
SE02 | Philippines room | Bridging global policy and local action: catalyzing CFS products and implementation of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty through philanthropic engagement
Abstract: This side event will explore how global policy frameworks—particularly those developed by the Committee on World Food Security—can be translated into tangible national and local outcomes through the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. It will examine the vital role the philanthropic sector can play in accelerating and scaling these efforts. By focusing on the intersection of policy and practice, the discussion will highlight strategies to strengthen global-to-national linkages, with a particular emphasis on increasing awareness, ownership, and practical use of CFS policy products in the Global Alliance-related initiatives. Participants will reflect on how philanthropic actors can serve as catalyst, key enablers and bridge-builders—mobilizing resources, fostering innovation, and supporting inclusive partnerships that drive real-world impact.
Organizers: Philanthropic Foundations Mechanism Brazil United Kingdom Republic of South Africa
Languages: English Spanish French
Catering: Yes
SE03 | Ethiopia room | Digital Public Infrastructure & Digital Solutions in Agriculture: Fostering Efficiency, Inclusion and Food Security
Abstract: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is transforming agriculture by providing an open, inclusive, and interoperable digital framework that enhances efficiency and fosters food security. DPI includes digital ID, geospatial platforms, open data, and payment systems that enable seamless coordination among stakeholders. It supports real-time data sharing, targeted services, and transparent policy implementation. DPI strengthens all four pillars of food security through tools like e-agriculture platforms, digital payments, and early warning systems. India’s initiatives like AgriStack, Aadhaar, UPI, ONDC, and e-Shram offer strong examples. DPI empowers smallholders, bridges the digital divide, and enables evidence-based decisions. Global support, especially through South-South Cooperation, is vital to build digital ecosystems. DPI lays the foundation for inclusive growth, resilient food systems, realization of Right to Food and achievement of SDG 2: Zero Hunger.
Organizers: India Malaysia Estonia Indonesia FAO IFAD WFP
Languages: English
Catering: Yes
SE04 | Austria room | Securing land, protecting natural resources, sowing peace: Responsible governance of tenure in agrifood systems through the effective uptake of VGGT
Abstract: In 2026, responsible governance of tenure will be high on the international agenda with the upcoming ICARRD+20 as well as the UN Year of the women farmer. This is all the more important, as land governance lies at the heart of today’s most pressing global challenges – as food security, climate change and biodiversity loss, conflicts and inequalities. In this regard, it is critical to explore lessons learned and remaining challenges of the uptake of one of the most successful CFS policy products – the VGGT. This side event aims to showcase how the effective uptake of VGGT is essential in realizing the RtF, while also strengthening climate resilience, supporting biodiversity conservation and empowering women and youth as key agents of change in land management. Drawing from diverse lenses and taking into account the CFS Action Plan on Uptake, it will explore different approaches to the implementation of equitable land governance with a special focus on its role in post-conflict settings.
Organizers: Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identiy (BMLEH) Germany FAO Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) Embassy of Colombia
Languages: English French Spanish
SE05 | Iran Room | Financing a sustainable future: Making responsible investments for healthy diets, climate action, and equity in food systems
Abstract: This session will explore innovative strategies, financing mechanisms and responsible business conduct across rural, peri-urban, and urban food value chains to accelerate a just and sustainable transformation of food systems for delivering healthy diets and better nutrition outcomes, environmental protection and decent livelihoods. It will bring together a diverse, multisectoral panel of Member States, development finance institutions, private sector leaders, civil society, and philanthropic actors to examine how financial flows — including official development assistance (ODA), climate finance, and responsible investment — can better support these outcomes, including through alignment with global commitments. Participants will examine enabling conditions for responsible and sustainable investments, highlight business cases for food systems transformation, and explore policy and regulatory levers for driving a just transition. The session will highlight innovative approaches and inclusive models that empower small-scale and family farmers, drawing on Brazil’s experience with targeted credit lines, as well as the challenges and existing solutions to empower small-scale and family farmers and engage them in carbon markets and ecosystem service schemes. By showcasing successful experiences and identifying key entry points, the session aims to accelerate responsible investment and multisectoral collaboration for equitable, resilient, and nutrition-sensitive agrifood systems.
Organizers: Ministry of Agrarian Development and Family Farming (MDA), Brazil DanChurchAid Decent Work Coalition UN-Nutrition Secretariat Initiative on Climate Action and Nutrition (I-CAN) Coalition of Action on Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems for Children and All (HDSFS) Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) National Confederation of Agricultural Workers (CONTAG, Brazil) Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA)
Languages: English Spanish French
13.30-14.45
SE06 | Green room | Right to Food in Armed Conflicts, Occupation, and Protracted Crises: Applying the CFS Framework for Action (FFA)
Abstract: Active armed conflicts have reached their highest level since the Second World War. Conflict was the primary driver of food insecurity for half of the total food insecure population in 2024. Populations in certain conflicts, including in Sudan and Gaza, are facing famine resulting from targeted attacks and blockades on humanitarian aid that amount to a use of starvation as a weapon of war. Strengthening policy coherence in line with international human rights and humanitarian law is urgent. The CFS FFA, among others, remains largely unused and absent from discussions in peace-building efforts and in the Humanitarian Development and Peace nexus. This event will explore how the CFS policy tools, particularly the FFA and the RtFG, can address growing challenges of food insecurity and malnutrition in conflicts, wars, and occupation. It will highlight the role of the right to food framework and rights-based approaches for promoting accountability, resilience, and justice in these settings.
Organizers: Civil Society and Indigenous Peoples' Mechanism (CSIPM) Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
Languages: English French Spanish
SE07 | Sheikh Zayed centre | Land tenure and governance: Preliminary findings from the Global Land Observatory
Abstract: ESP is pleased to invite you to the event on Land tenure and governance: preliminary findings form the Global Land Observatory (GLO), in partnership with International Land Coalition (ILC) and the French Agricultural Research Center for International Development (CIRAD). In this session we will presents some preliminary insights from the GLO regarding land tenure systems and governance frameworks, with special focus on women's land rights and the importance of customary tenure to mitigating climate change and ensuring the protection of biodiversity. Bringing together tenure- and sex- disaggregated data and analyses on land tenure and governance from a variety of sources (governments, civil society and academia) at different levels (from local to global), it builds an evidence base for action towards the achievement of numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the uptake of the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure of Land, Fisheries and Forests in the Context of National Food Security (VGGT), and other international frameworks (such as the Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems [CFS-RAI], the Rio Conventions, among others). The objectives of the GLO are to generate and make available data, evidence and analyses on the status of land tenure and governance issues, as a reference point for policy makers, IGOs, civil society, private sector, academia, linking global with country commitments in the frameworks of the SDGs, the VGGT, and the New Urban Agenda (NUA).
Organizers: FAO International Land Coalition (ILC) French Agricultural Research Center for International Development - CIRAD Representations of the Government of Brazil at FAO
Languages: Arabic Chinese English French Russian Spanish Portuguese
SE08 | Philippines room | Operationalising private sector investment in Agri-Food Systems Transformation
Abstract: This event brings together the Food and Agriculture Resilience Mission – Pillar 3 (FARM P3), the Enhanced Linkages between Private Sector and Small-scale Producers (ELPS) and the Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) to the CFS to explore practical ways the private sector can drive agri-food systems transformation—through on-the-ground action and policy engagement. The session will highlight solution-oriented approaches that foster private sector engagement in sustainable agrifood systems transformation— such as linkages facilitation, supplier upgrading, SME support via PPP, and the development of multi-stakeholder platforms. Case studies from Tanzania and Rwanda will show how these models are delivering results through blended finance, coordinated facilitation, risk management, and strong partnerships. Speakers will include voices from private companies, government, donors, and implementing partners involved in country-level work in Tanzania and Rwanda, and beyond.
Organizers: IFAD - FARM P3 and ELPS Private Sector Mechanism (PSM) to the UN Committee on World Food Security (CFS) Japan Tanzania France Africa Improved Foods Marubeni Corporation Ueshima Coffee Co., Ltd
Languages: English
SE09 | Red room | Seeds of resilience: Unlocking food systems transformation through Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) and agroecological approaches
Abstract: In the face of climate change, biodiversity loss, rising hunger and malnutrition, transforming current unsustainable food systems towards resilience, sustainability, and equity is imperative. This side event explores how Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS) and agroecology contribute to this transformation. Drawing on concrete experiences from CROPS4HD (India, Niger, Chad, Tanzania) and SUSTLIVES (Burkina Faso, Niger), the event highlights diverse approaches—from strengthened farmer seed systems and increased crop diversity to healthy product development, market access, and consumer behaviour change—all while empowering women and youth. Panelists representing governments, farmers, civil society, research, and UN organisations will share lessons learned, address challenges, and discuss how these experiences inform a new multi-stakeholder initiative to scale NUS and agroecology in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Organizers: Switzerland SWISSAID European Union (European Commission – DG INTPA) International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL) Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari (CIHEAM-Bari)
Languages: English French
Catering: Yes
SE10 | Ethiopia room | Looping into tomorrow’s food systems – Innovative circular bioeconomy as a path to building resilient food systems
Abstract: While global food security is lagging behind, organic waste from households and food production cause major water and soil pollution and GHG emissions, not the least in urban and peri-urban areas. In parallel, the dependency of imported fossil fuel-based fertilizers, feed and food is growing, while international trade is volatile. To link these systems, new behaviours need to be encouraged, and responsibilities reshaped. By separating organic waste and by-products already at the source, it is possible to develop decentralized solutions for waste streams, which are efficiently used as nutritious high-value resources for fertilizers, bioenergy, feed and food. This event will show innovative ways to harness available resources into food value chains, contributing to nutritious and sustainable food systems, and increasing communities' resilience and independence. It will explore how disconnected systems can be linked into a circular bioeconomy for sustainable and resilient food security.
Organizers: The Swedish FAO Committee Swedish University of Agricultural University (SLU) FAO Office of Innovation Sweden Kenya Swedish International Agricultural Network Initiative (SIANI) Axfoundation WeEffect
Languages: English
Time Side Events
08.30-09.45
SE11 | Green room | Securing Land Rights for Climate Action, Biodiversity and Food: Indigenous Peoples and Family Farmers leading the way through Agroecology, Knowledge and Safeguards, aligning with the ICARRD+20 Vision
Abstract: For Indigenous Peoples, peasants and family farmers, the control over and governance of their lands and territories is the manifestation of their rights, the foundation of their food systems and livelihoods, and the cornerstone of the fight against the climate crisis, land degradation and biodiversity loss. This side event places their voices, knowledge, and rights at the very centre of the debate. This event addresses the critical intersection between land governance, Indigenous Peoples’, peasants and smallholder family farmer’s rights, climate action, biodiversity conservation, land restoration and sustainable food systems. Grounded in Theme 3 of the International Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development +20 (ICARRD+20) “Rural communities as custodians of land and biodiversity”, it will examine how the displacement of the people who live on and from the land, including Indigenous Peoples, peasants and family farmers, erodes traditional knowledge, undermines climate mitigation efforts, and exacerbates food insecurity and biodiversity loss. Securing land and territories for Indigenous Peoples, peasants and smallholder and family farmers is a fundamental prerequisite for preserving agroecological knowledge; ensuring long-term food sovereignty, advancing climate action, and conserving biodiversity. The event will present an innovative approach, integrating policy frameworks such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), the UN Declaration on the Rights of Peasants and Other People Working in Rural Areas (UNDROP) and the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure (VGGT), to bridge genuine agrarian reform with contemporary food system transformation. We will explore how secure land tenure is the indispensable thread connecting: 1. Demanding policy coherence: We will analyse how high-risk and land-intensive climate solutions in the Global South can violate Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and erode territorial rights, simultaneously undermining the objectives of the three Rio Conventions (Climate Change, Biological Diversity, and Desertification) and the right to food. 2. Showcasing real alternatives: Indigenous Peoples, peasants and family farmers will demonstrate how their land and territorial governance and management systems, agroecology, and traditional knowledge are not only fundamental to their food sovereignty but are the most effective solutions for achieving the climate resilience and biodiversity conservation that the Rio Agendas promote. 3. Forging joint pathways: We will identify how CFS tools (such as the VGGT and the VGSFS Guidelines) must serve as mandatory safeguards to align global climate and biodiversity policies with human rights, ensuring the path to fulfilling the Rio Conventions' goals is led by the original guardians of territories. 4. The critical nexus: between land and territorial rights, responsible governance, and Indigenous Peoples' knowledge systems as foundational pillars for transforming food systems, in alignment with the right to adequate food. It will connect this imperative to the objectives of the International Conference on Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (ICARRD+20) and key HLPE-FSN reports on land tenure, agroecological approaches, and resilient food systems.
Organizers: International Land Coalition (ILC) Government of Mexico Government of Colombia Land Matrix Initiative Asian Farmers Association (AFA) CONSEA, Brazil German Institute for Human Rights Asociación Civil Tzikin Tzakan High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition (HLPE-FSN) of the CFS German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA)
Languages: English Spanish French
SE12 | Iran Room | From Crisis and Conflict to Resilience: Leveraging Social Protection for Food and Nutrition Security
Abstract: Food crises are becoming more frequent, severe, and protracted, driven by conflict, climate change, economic instability, and fragile food systems. At the same time, the aid sector is undergoing significant shifts, with governments and partners seeking sustainable ways to strengthen local production, safeguard food systems, and protect populations from shocks. Social protection systems—when well designed, adequately financed, and context-sensitive—can be powerful tools to prevent and mitigate food crises. By securing access to nutritious diets, protecting livelihoods, stabilising markets, and supporting local production, social protection can contribute across multiple dimensions of food systems resilience. This event is part of a collaboration between the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) through its STAAR Facility, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). WFP and FAO, as core members of the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC), promote social protection as a strategic pillar for crisis prevention and resilience building. To inform the discussion, a series of think pieces was commissioned from academics and practitioners, exploring the role of social protection in addressing different drivers of food crises. Drawing on these contributions, the event will examine why food systems fail, where and how social protection has made a difference, and what it takes to design systems that integrate nutrition, are context-responsive, and gender-sensitive. Building on the outcomes of the 2024 Global Forum on Social Protection in Contexts of Conflict and Fragility, it will also present operational and policy recommendations to better align social protection with food crisis response and long-term food systems resilience in fragile and conflict-affected settings—informing global efforts to achieve SDG 2 and shaping future CFS guidance. These works do not represent a single institutional position but provide a diverse evidence base to prompt debate and reflection.
Organizers: World Food Programme (WFP) Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC)
Languages: English
SE13 | Philippines room | Investing in the future: Building partnerships and strengthening financing for healthier School Meals Programmes
Abstract: Recent estimates from SOFI 2025 show global hunger declined from 8.5% in 2023 to 8.2% in 2024, mainly due to progress in Asia and South America, while it continues to rise in Africa and Western Asia. Food insecurity also decreased gradually, reaching 28% of the global population in 2024, with improvements in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Asia, but worsening trends in Africa. The cost of a healthy diet rose by 3.7% in 2024, reaching 4.46 PPP dollars per person per day. Despite this increase, the number of people unable to afford such a diet dropped to 2.6 billion, with notable reductions in Asia and slight decreases in LAC, Northern America, Europe, and Oceania. Africa, however, saw increases in both the share and number of people affected. Obesity continues to rise worldwide, affecting 15.8% of adults in 2022, up from 12.1% in 2012. LAC has the highest prevalence at and the steepest increase. Child overweight remained stable globally at 5.5% in 2024, though LAC shows the highest levels and increases. School Meals Programmes are key strategies to address food insecurity and malnutrition, especially among school-age children and adolescents. Despite global investments of nearly USD 50 billion, challenges persist. Sustainable financing, knowledge and locally engaged partnerships are essential to ensure quality, inclusion, equity and long-term impact. For instance, the Sustainable School Feeding Network (RAES), led by Brazil-FAO cooperation, supports 18 LAC countries to enhance their SFP through dialogue, policy development, nutrition standards and public procurement from family farming. While financing is one key component, knowledge and understanding of the enabling environment, nutrition, local food preferences and local partnership are also pivotal for scaling up the programmes. The School Meals Coalition, with over 100 members, fosters global collaboration to ensure every child receives a healthy school meal by 2030. Its Sustainable Financing Initiative builds evidence and provides technical assistance to boost domestic investment. By sharing best practices with regards to financing and collaboration as well as discussing enabling environments with a child-centered approach, the event will highlight how school meals can become a driver of agrifood resilience, and access to affordable healthy diets.
Organizers: United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) World Food Programme (WFP) Brasil Sweden The Swedish FAO Committee National Fund for Educational Development (FNDE) Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC) Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty Ukraine Kenya Center of excellence of PMA Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) School Meals Coalition SIANI Sustainable School Feeding Network (RAES) Sustainable Financing Initiative (School Meals Coalition) Swedish Food Agency The Consumers Good Forum We Effect Private Sector mechanisms
Languages: English French Spanish Porturguese
Catering: Yes
SE14 | Ethiopia room | SAFER: a path forward for crisis-responsive food safety measures
Abstract: The SAFER (Standards and Accountability for Effective Relief) project brings together aid agencies, governments, and regulators to develop inclusive, practical solutions linking food safety, security, and sustainability. It promotes risk-based food safety standards tailored to real-world conditions, assessing hazards and adapting regulations beyond one-size-fits-all models. Food safety and quality (FSQ) is essential for food security and nutrition, especially for vulnerable populations reliant on aid. Yet humanitarian operations face many challenges that hinder timely, effective aid. SAFER supports harmonized, context-appropriate food safety systems to ensure aid is safe, nutritious, and fit for purpose. This event shares SAFER findings, showcases benefits of risk-based FSQ, and explores how food safety investment strengthens humanitarian response, builds resilient agrifood systems, supports One Health goals, and reinforces the right to adequate food.
Organizers: Food and Agriculture Organization World Food Programme Médecins Sans Frontières UNICEF Government of Ireland (TBC)
Languages: English
Catering: Yes
SE15 | Austria room | A Gateway to the Regions: Bridging the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission Global Launch to Local Realities and Community Action
Abstract: This event presents the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission Summary for and with Policymakers, highlighting science-to-action pathways for sustainable food systems transformation and bridging global insights to national and regional policy work. It will feature an interactive discussion with Commissioners, country representatives, and community leaders. The 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission provides an independent scientific assessment of healthy diets, sustainable food production, and the social foundations of a just food system. Its findings show that while current food systems drive insecurity, inequality, and environmental degradation, coordinated action can nourish a growing population, improve health, advance justice, and stay within planetary boundaries. The Summary for and with Policymakers (SPM) convened 84 individuals, including policymakers from over 30 countries, who participated in at least one dialogue and/or contributed written comments. The SPM echoes their voices. It includes key messages drawn from the 2025 EAT-Lancet Commission with additional key messages contributed by policymakers. It further identifies 34 policy actions which have been demonstrated to have impact on facilitating transitions to healthy, sustainable, and just food systems, and provides specific country examples of how these policy actions are being applied.
Organizers: EAT Alliance - Bioversity International & CIAT FAO (ESN, DDCC) SUN Mexico / INSP Convene
Languages: English
Catering: Yes
13.30-14.45
SE16 | Iran Room | Local Food Solutions for Healthy Diets: Strengthening Urban and Peri-Urban Agri-food systems
Abstract: The world is still far off track to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2, Zero Hunger and Sustainable Agriculture, with an estimated 8.2 percent of the global population facing hunger in 2024. Progress towards the global nutrition targets has also been limited, with a decrease in the prevalence of child stunting from 26.4 percent in 2012 to 23.2 percent in 2024 (SOFI, 2025). The lack of affordable, nutritious and healthy diets is a major driver of this, with poverty, ineffective food systems and recurrent humanitarian emergencies being some of the main barriers to ensuring people can access the foods they need to survive and to be healthy, productive and resilient. Latest estimates also show that more than one-third of people in the world – about 2.6 billion – could not afford a healthy diet in 2024 (SOFI 2025). Globally, 80% of food produced is consumed in urban areas and projections for 2050 predict 9 billion people inhabiting the planet, 70% of them in urban areas.Furthermore, studies have shown that food systems contribute to one-third of global emissions. The situation is even more critical in fragile settings, where conflict, climate shocks and economic instability exacerbate food insecurity, and access to nutritious food remains extremely limited. Unaffordability coupled with limited availability and poor physical access limits the diversity and the quality of foods that people acquire for consumption, leading to inadequate and poor diets. Transforming food systems through the lens of the urban–rural continuum is key to addressing the interconnected challenges of food security and nutrition, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development, including in the most fragile settings. In this regard, the short production and consumption circuits can mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on non-renewable energy sources, and promote access to adequate and healthy products, mainly in areas of social vulnerability. As needs rise and funding declines, smarter, more sustainable approaches are urgently needed to tackle malnutrition and promote healthy diets to improve nutrition, particularly in fragile contexts. The event aims to showcase locally driven food-based solutions and innovative initiatives in urban and peri-urban settings that can contribute to improve access to healthy diets from sustainable food systems, especially in fragile settings. The event will also highlight examples of food policies from various regions that have been implemented in challenging contexts to increase resilience of food systems and improve nutrition. These are good practices that take a cross-cutting approach to urban and peri-urban food systems, involving multiple stakeholders, strengthening territorial approaches, and promoting local leadership and agency. Urban agriculture can also be seen as a tool to help cities to face with the climate change challenges, being a way to implement adaptation and mitigation actions.
Organizers: National Secretary for Food and Nutritional Security of the Ministry of Social Development and Assistance, Family and Fight Against Hunger (SESAN/MDS/Brazil) Comida do Amanhã Institute World Food Programme UN Nutrition Secretariat Colansa United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGV) Coalition of Action on Healthy Diets from Sustainable Food Systems for Children and All (HDSFS) Food and Agriculture Organization International Fund for Agriculture Development
Languages: English
Catering: Yes
SE17 | Ethiopia room | Eliminating child labour in agriculture and fostering sustainable global supply chains through area-based approaches
Abstract: In 2024, 138 million children were engaged in child labour, with 61% in agriculture. Amid persistent poverty, food insecurity, climate change, and conflict, urgent action is needed. The proposed side event will highlight the urgency of eliminating child labour in agrifood systems by addressing root causes such as poverty and the vulnerability to climate change and lack of access to quality education. Drawing on the CLEAR Supply Chains project, co-funded by the EU and implemented by ILO, FAO, UNICEF and ITC in Uganda and Honduras, the event will present practical, area-based solutions piloted in the global coffee supply chain. It will share insights from integrated interventions to support compliance with upcoming due diligence requirements, like the EU CSDDD. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and the need to strengthen knowledge, upscale solutions, and promote global partnerships to advance SDG 8.7 and build child labour-free supply chains.
Organizers: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations International Labour Organization International Trade Center (ITC) UNICEF
Languages: English Spanish
SE18 | Green room | From ambition to action: Building on the UNFSS+4 outcomes for food system transformation
Abstract: The UNFSS+4 took place in Ethiopia in July 2025 amid rising challenges, geopolitical instability, and declining financing. The Summit, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy, is guided by the UN Secretary-General’s Call to Action to review progress since UNFSS+2 and foster multilateralism, emphasizing collective action and shared responsibility to tackle the current complex challenges, while ensuring that food systems can deliver economic, environmental and nutrition outcomes for better health and wellbeing for all. In this context, aligning efforts across sectors is crucial to ensure a successful transition to more inclusive, sustainable and resilient food systems. Partnerships, sustainable financing and good governance are key pre-conditions for the transformation of food systems and achieving the Right to Adequate Food for All. The Summit focused on three objectives: reviewing progress, strengthening partnerships and tracking commitments, and unlocking finance for food systems transformation. This side event will explore the UNFSS+4 Secretary-General’s Call to Action and the roles of both state and non-state actors in advancing systemic solutions that benefit people and the planet. It will also look ahead to the next two years and explore synergies with other global processes such as Nutrition for Growth (N4G), the Financing for Development Conference, the Committee on World Food Security (CFS53), the World Summit for Social Development and COP30.
Organizers: United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub The Government of Ethiopia, ATI The Government of Italy Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Brazil Major Group for Children and Youth Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement
Languages: English Spanish French
SE19 | Philippines room | Challenges in the Application of International Instruments on the Right to Food: The Experiences of Brazil and Colombia
Abstract: The Right to Food (Rtf) must be the basic approach for reorienting food systems and related normative frameworks. People around the world are facing complex problems, including hunger and all forms of malnutrition, caused by poverty, inequalities, discrimination, conflicts, land grabbing, exploitation of natural resources, deforestation, climate change. Civil Society and governments must address those complex and interconnected challenges together, considering key dimensions such as social participation, accountability/ enforceability, corporate power and financing. Between 2019 and 2022, Brazil’s government dismantled numerous public policies that contributed to the realization of the right to food and halted civil society dialogue, including shutting down CONSEA. This led to Brazil's return to the Hunger Map, with increased poverty and inequality, even though RtF was formally recognized in its Constitution since 2010. The reactivation in 2023 of both the CONSEA and the National Food and Nutrition Security System, along with the set of public policies, has led to results that can already be seen in the improvement of living conditions and food and nutritional security for the Brazilian population. However, it also raises questions about the conditions necessary to ensure the sustainability of the progressive realization of the human right to adequate food. These are central aspects of the debates taking place both within the Brazilian government and among civil society organizations working on this agenda. Amid renewed violence that threatens peacebuilding, Colombia’s food systems face deepening risks. A historic 2025 constitutional reform recognizing the right to food marks a turning point for human rights and food security in the country. Presentation of experiences on the application of the Voluntary Guidelines in support of the progressive realization of the right to adequate food, based on the cases of Brazil and Colombia, where the right to food is recognized as a constitutional right can feature lessons and promote territorial strategies that strengthen livelihoods. The legal and political potential that comes with its constitutional status is highlighted, as it serves to guide the implementation of public policies under a high human rights standard.
Organizers: The National Council on Food and Nutritional Security of the Presidency of the Republic of Brazil – CONSEA Civil Society and Indigenous Peoples’ Mechanism German Institute for Human Rights Interministerial Chamber for Food and nutritional Security of the Ministry of Social Assistance and Development, Family and Fight Against Hunger of Brazil – Caisan/MDS FIAN Colombia University of Andes Observatorio del Derecho a la Alimentación en América Latina y el Caribe Frente Parlamentario Contra el Hambre Asociación de Mujeres Unidas de San Isidro Dejusticia MESA América Latina FAO Gobierno de Colombia, Ministerio de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural FAO Colombia Comisión de seguimiento al Derecho Humano a la Alimentación de Colombia
Languages: English Spanish French
Time Side Events
08.30-09.45
SE20 | Philippines room | From Insight to Impact: Policy and Systems Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning for Food Futures
Abstract: Food systems worldwide face mounting pressures from climate change, biodiversity loss, and persistent food insecurity. Transforming them requires both adaptive approaches and inclusive policy processes that can respond to complexity and uncertainty. This session will present the work of UNDP and the World Bank on driving food systems transformation through inclusive policy reform and the new digital MEL 360, a set of Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) tools and guidance for food systems and other complex contexts. The MEL360 is designed to help implementers and funders navigate complexity, manage trade-offs, adapt in real time, and inform accountable decision-making. A facilitated dialogue will focus on Malawi’s experience with repurposing agricultural support through a national soil health initiative and the forthcoming 10-year soil health and fertilizer strategy. This case will highlight the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach, adaptive learning, as well as the need for ongoing dialogue, transparency, and farmer participation in shaping effective policies. The event will conclude with an interactive dialogue with the audience, opening space for exchange across governments, civil society, private sector, funders, and farmer voices. By bridging evidence, learning, and policy action, it will demonstrate how national policy pathways can deliver more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems. These pathways, informed and strengthened by MEL360, also reinforce the uptake of CFS policy recommendations.
Organizers: UNDP, Bureau for Policy and Programme Support/Global Policy Network, Nature Hub, Food Systems UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office World Bank Gates Foundation Clim-EAT UN Food Systems Coordination Hub
Languages: English
SE21 | Ethiopia room | Breaking silos, aligning for impact: How countries use dietary guidelines to coordinate agrifood systems’ actions
Abstract: Efforts by countries to make agrifood systems deliver healthy diets often face a persistent challenge: fragmentation. Policies impacting the availability, affordability and acceptability of nutritious foods that can contribute to healthy diets in sectors like agriculture, health, environment, education, and trade are usually made without having a shared vision on how healthy diets from sustainable agrifood systems can be made a reality for all. This lack of coordinated vision and actions limits the impact of well-intentioned programmes, weakens accountability, and slows progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those linked to food security, nutrition, and sustainable consumption and production. This side event will showcase how countries are responding to this challenge by using dietary guidelines as a policy tool to shift from siloed strategies to more coordinated agrifood systems actions. Specifically, this event will feature FAO’s Food Systems-Based Dietary Guidelines (FSBDGs) methodology, an innovative, practical approach that helps countries in developing evidence-informed dietary recommendations and translating them into aligned, multisectoral food systems actions. By taking healthy diets as an entry point and applying a systems lens, underpinned by the conceptual framework for diets and nutrition of the CFS High Level Panel of Experts (HLPE), the FSBDGs methodology offers a structured process to identify how policies and actions in different parts of the food system interact supporting or constraining better diets, and where strategic changes are needed. Crucially, it brings together a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, academia, research institutions, civil society, and underrepresented groups to foster collaboration, identify synergies, and co-create effective, country-specific solutions. In doing so, it supports national efforts to deliver healthier diets, improve nutrition, and build more equitable and sustainable agrifood systems. The event will highlight concrete country experiences. Ghana and Ethiopia will share how they applied elements of the FSBDGs methodology to develop food systems-wide action plans for implementing their national dietary guidelines. In particular, Ghana will describe how, through extensive dialogue with multiple stakeholders, they developed and agreed on food system recommendations for healthy diets for implementation. Ethiopia will illustrate how healthy dietary patterns aligned with dietary guidelines are being used to guide subnational planning and reformulate agricultural fiscal policies—underscoring the central role of healthy diets in national policymaking. Brazil will discuss how its guidelines have served as a foundation for intersectoral food and nutrition policies, while promoting multiple elements of sustainability—such as biodiversity, traditional food cultures, and social equity. Together, these country experiences and perspectives will illustrate the transformative potential of FSBDGs to translate the goal of healthy diets into coordinated food systems actions. When anchored in evidence, inclusion, and sustainability, dietary guidelines can become powerful tools to strengthen policy coherence, catalyze action, and contribute to making agrifood systems nourish people, support livelihoods, and protect the planet.
Organizers: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (ESN, ESA, and ESF) Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Ghana Ethiopia Public Health Institute Brazil Ministry of Health
Languages: English French Spanish
Catering: Yes
SE22 | Iran Room | Feeding Justice: Transforming Agrifood Systems through the Right to Food
Abstract: Current agrifood systems not only fail to achieve food security and nutrition for all but also often deepen inequalities. The complexity of interactions between elements and actors within these systems requires addressing interconnected shortcomings through a human rights-based and systemic approach to achieve food security and appropriate nutrition for all while reducing social inequalities. The right to food (RTF) provides a clear guiding framework for achieving policy coherence across interventions tackling different elements of agrifood systems while steering the process itself. Ensuring participatory decision-making and accountability, where historically marginalized groups can engage meaningfully, is critical for improving resilient agrifood systems governance and driving equitable change. Building upon research, best practices, and lessons learned from a wide variety of stakeholders, this side event will showcase concrete examples on how to integrate the RTF into agrifood systems’ transformations.
Organizers: Switzerland FAO Right to Food Team Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food UN Working Group on the rights of peasants and other people working in rural areas Fastenaktion Switzerland Development Agency of the Catholic Children’s Movement in Austria (DKA Austria) Social Work Institute in Nepal (SWI) Columbia University International Institute of Rural Reconstruction (IIRR) Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT Rikolto Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights Food Equity Centre Rural Women's Assembly Centre for Minority Rights Development (CEMIRIDE) Vétérinaires Sans Frontières Suisse (VSF-Suisse)
Languages: English French Spanish
SE23 | Green room | Agroecology as a transformative pathway towards sustainable food systems: Scaling investments, policies and practices
Abstract: This side event examines the opportunities and dynamics of accelerating food systems transformation through agroecology. It outlines key imperatives and showcases promising initiatives related to enabling policies and platforms, innovative finance mechanisms and agroecology practices on the ground. It highlights policy processes undertaken in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to elaborate National Agroecology Strategies and Guidelines, emphasizing the involvement of both government and Non-State Actors (NSAs) in the process. Furthermore, this event demonstrates how agroecology elements (FAO 2018) and principles (CFS 2019) are applied on the ground by family farmers and food provisioners, local communities and Indigenous Peoples to enhance both rural and peri-urban food systems and deliver on social, economic, and environmental objectives. Finally, this side-event discusses the vital importance of financing agroecological transformations aligned with human rights principles, through democratically-created, transparent and accountable mechanisms that are co-created with rights-holders /food provisioners, recognizing that at least a tenfold increase in current annual philanthropic, public, and private investments will be necessary to support a transition to agroecology and regenerative approaches.
Organizers: Agroecology Coalition – multi-stakeholder organization Institute for Agroecology, University of Vermont (research/academia) Agroecology Fund Civil Society and Indigenous Peoples’ Mechanism (CSIPM) Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Uganda Agroecology Europe Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) Biovision Foundation Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmBH FAO Agroecology Knowledge Hub Global Alliance for the Future of Food Indigenous Women and Girls Initiative Indigenous Partnership for Agrobiodiversity and Food Sovereignty (TIP) ISARA Lyon IPES-Food Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) TPP on Agroecology
Languages: English French Spanish
Catering: Yes
13.30-14.45
SE24 | Green room | On the road to COP30: synergies between the right to food and the 3 Rio Conventions
Abstract: Just before COP30, this side event will explore the necessity to better implement the Right to food and promote sustainable, rights-based approaches to food systems transformation—including agroecology—in different multilateral spaces, in order to reinforce each other. This dialogue will highlight existing synergies between the CFS and the 3 Rio Conventions, and the need to create new ones, especially regarding financial reforms and human rights safeguards for climate, land, and biodiversity policies to achieve food security and nutrition.
Organizers: Brazil Civil Society and Indigenous Peoples’ Mechanism (CSIPM) Switzerland Colombia (TBC) Philanthropic Foundation Mechanism (TBC)
Languages: English French Spanish
SE25 | Iran Room | Governing Sustainable, Climate Resilient & Equitable Urban and Peri-urban Food Systems Transformations: Field Insights and Policy Innovations
Abstract: This side event will explore how cities and urban regions can drive sustainable, resilient and equitable food systems transformation in the face of climate change. It will examine governance innovations for multi-level policy processes and pathways that enable and strengthen urban and peri-urban food systems transformations through inclusive, multi-actor approaches, featuring concrete examples from urban territories across the world.
Organizers: FAO BMLEH (Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Germany) IFAD IFPRI University of Cape Town University of Galway Ministry of Social Development and Assistance, Brazil National Council for Food and Nutritional Security (CONSEA/Brazil) Ethiopia Vietnam WFP UN-Habitat IPCC Wageningen University University of Barcelona High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition IPES-Food C40 Cities Rikolto
Languages: English French Spanish Portuguese
Catering: Yes
SE26 | Philippines room | Blended Finance and Impact Measurement in Agrifood Systems: The Catalytic Capital Framework
Abstract: The Thematic Working Group on Sustainable/Blended Finance for Food Systems was established in April 2024 by the GDPRD. It brings together representatives from donor organizations, philanthropies, public funds and foundations to explore innovative financing approaches aimed at increasing the impact of donor and public funds on food systems. This session will present the group's first initiative: standardizing the assessment of additionality and impact in agri-SME blended finance through a Catalytic Capital Framework.
Organizers: Global Donor Platform for Rural Development (GDPRD) International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) Agri-SME Learning Collective
Languages: English
SE27 | Ethiopia room | From Pledges to Progress: Accountability for Nutrition in a Shifting World
Abstract: This side event supports the building of resilient food systems that benefit nutrition by strengthening responsible investment in food security and nutrition. Emphasising a multistakeholder approach—including civil society, governments, and private sector-aligned actors—the event will invite a conversation on how we can transparently hold ourselves and one another to account. It will showcase progress on global nutrition commitments and strategies for transparent, democratic, and accountable governance.
Organizers: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Global Nutrition Report Government of Nigeria PERUSAN Access to Nutrition Initiative (ATNI)
Languages: English French Spanish
Time Side Events
08.30-09.45
SE28 | Iran room | From Saving Lives to Building Futures: Best Practices in Integrating Child Protection & Food Security Across the Humanitarian-Development Nexus
Flyer
Abstract: There is not a single driver that contributes to child protection risks (i.e. child labour, family separation, forced recruitment into armed groups, sexual violence, child marriage etc.). There is a combination of several factors such as social and cultural norms, food insecurity, lack of legal frameworks and their enforcement, economic drivers that contribute to these risks. Research indicates that there is a bidirectional and interconnected linkage between CP risks and food insecurity. The side event will explore interlinkages between Child Protection and Food Security, enabling stakeholders to gain knowledge and understanding of the added value of integrated programming within humanitarian and development interventions. The event will showcase emerging good practices and successful country examples of integrated programming between CP and FS. Concrete recommendations and a call to action will be outlined for humanitarian actors, governments, donors, and civil society actors.
Organizers: Global Food Security Cluster Plan International World Vision Global Child Protection Area of Responsibility
Languages: English
SE29 | Philippines room | Leveraging data-driven evidence-base and frameworks to build more resilient food systems
Abstract: Knowledge of impacts of climatic events, rather than when such events will be, is more actionable for policymakers, enabling targeted and cost-effective decisions towards building resilient food systems. This event will demonstrate how monitoring frameworks and early warning systems such as Food Systems Countdown Initiative and FamineWatch (FEWSNET replacement) can be leveraged to influence food security and nutrition policies. This data-driven evidence combined with local knowledge enables proactive planning for farmers, workers, and donors. Diverse stakeholders will discuss the implications of integrating these tracking and forecasting capabilities into national and regional policy frameworks. A key focus will be co-designing targeted interventions addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Through interactive dialogue, this event will contribute to the CFS Global Narrative by promoting the use of novel data analysis and tools to achieve food security and nutrition goals.
Organizers: Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC) London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Ministry of Environment, Water, and Sanitation, Burkina Faso Columbia Climate School, Columbia University Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) Insight Commons
Languages: English
11.45-13.00
SE30 | Ethiopia room | Accelerating the Implementation of the Kampala Declaration for Agrifood Systems Transformation: Lessons from the Country-Level
Abstract: Africa’s food systems face increasing pressure from climate shocks, vulnerabilities, and declining donor support. Despite significant progress, gaps in food security, financing, and investment targeting remain. The 2025 Kampala Declaration shifts toward inclusive, high-performing agri-food systems, providing a framework for evidence-based, accountable transformation. AKADEMIYA2063 and partners support its domestication in Kenya and Togo, aligning national policies, budgets, and strategies with the Declaration’s goals. This side event highlights early progress and lessons. Emphasizing local data, stakeholder engagement, and strategic priorities ensures resilient, impactful commitments. Tools like the updated NAIP Toolkit and cross-country learning promote transparency and sustainable financing. Inclusive consultations with diverse stakeholders enhance the legitimacy of agrifood transformation strategies, helping turn the Kampala Declaration’s aspirations into impactful outcomes.
Organizers: AKADEMIYA2063 PAFO The Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP)
Languages: English
SE31 | Philippines room | Building economic resilience for smallholder farmers: leveraging living income to transform agrifood systems
Agenda Info sheet
Abstract: Transforming agrifood systems requires responsible agricultural investment and decent livelihoods for all, especially smallholders who depend on agriculture for income. This session explores the concept of living income—defined as the net annual income required for a household to afford a decent standard of living—and its critical role in building resilient and sustainable agrifood systems. We will examine how incomes of smallholders often fall below the threshold of living income, perpetuating poverty and undermining sustainability. Participants will explore strategies to measure and close living income gaps, such as value chain interventions and policy development. Case studies from various stakeholders will show how living income approaches inform government budget, corporate sourcing, investments in production, environmental stewardship, and food security. Ensuring smallholders earn enough to live with dignity is key to resilient agrifood systems and equitable rural development.
Organizers: Living Income Community of Practice (LICOP) FAO Agrifood Economics and Policy Division (ESA team) International Coffee Organisation World Banana Forum Ministry of Agriculture Mexico (SADER) UK delegation German Delegation (BMZ) Nestle OFI
Languages: English
SE32 | Iran Room | Financing Agrifood Systems Transformation: Aligning multilateral, public and private investments
Concept Note
Abstract: Marking the UN’s 80th anniversary, this side event will reaffirm the importance of multilateralism at a time of mounting global crises, declining official development assistance, and weakening international cooperation. It will spotlight the transformation of agrifood systems as a cornerstone for achieving prosperity, wellbeing, and global security. The session will highlight how blended public–private investment and multilateral pooled funding mechanisms can serve as complementary drivers to mobilize resources and deliver sustainable, inclusive, and resilient agrifood systems. Drawing on insights from the GDPRD High-Level Advisory Group and its 2025 White Paper “Financing Agrifood Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity”, the event will explore strategic recommendations to scale investment and align donor strategies. At the heart of this event is a clear call to action: Agrifood systems must become a top-tier investment priority. The discussions will:
  • Elevate agrifood systems as a smart investment, and mobilize support for more coherent, scalable and country-driven financing approaches that prioritize integrated, cross-sectoral solutions, including the brokering of collaborative agrifood financing agreements to align actors and scale investment.
  • Demonstrate the value of pooled funding in driving efficiency and country-prioritized action, using a field example: the Safe Access to Fuel and Energy Plus, Phase 2 (SAFE+2) joint programme in Bangladesh, implemented by four UN agencies and funded through a Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) with Norway’s support.
By convening governments, UN agencies, International Financial Institutions (IFIs), and the private sector, the session will demonstrate how coordinated approaches can reduce fragmentation and catalyse large-scale, sustainable investment. In celebrating 80 years of the UN, the event will chart a forward-looking vision of joint action and financing for more equitable and food-secure futures.
Organizers: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) - Partnerships and UN Collaboration Division (PSU) Global Donor Platform for Rural Development (GDPRD) International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) European Commission Norway UN Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office Bangladesh (TBC) World Food Programme (WFP) (TBC)
Languages: English
13.30-14.45
SE33 | Philippines room | From Fragility to Resilience: Leveraging the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty for Child-Sensitive, Resilient Livelihoods
Abstract: With five years left to achieve the SDGs, this CFS side event will showcase how programmes that are child-sensitive, promote resilient and sustainable livelihoods and drive sustainable progress in eliminating hunger and malnutrition, particularly for children living in fragile and/or climate-affected contexts. Drawing on the CFS Policy Recommendations on Climate Change and Food Security, the VGFSyN and the Kampala Declaration on CAADP (2025)--the African Union's newly updated framework to transform Africa's food systems, this session will highlight the role of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (GAAHP) as a global coordination mechanism for more integrated policies and investments that promote resilience and protect the most vulnerable. It will present progress and lessons learned from the first year of the GAAHP’s matchmaking of national demands with financial and technical support through country case studies. The session will demonstrate how child-sensitive strategies can translate CFS policy guidance into improved nutrition outcomes on the ground while underlining gender-responsive approaches, children’s rights, and Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge in shaping just and resilient food systems.
Organizers: SDG2 Advocacy Hub World Vision International Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil
Languages: English
SE34 | Austria room | Harnessing Data for Policy Making: Advancing Food Security and Decent Jobs in Agrifood Systems
Abstract: Transforming food systems to end poverty and hunger requires both innovative, evidence-driven policymaking and human rights–based approaches that ensure fair working conditions, living incomes, and economic equity. Building agency and effectively addressing the decent work deficits for the 4.5 billion people who depend on food systems is key to advancing equitable livelihoods. This side event will showcase initiatives supporting inclusive, sustainable agri-food systems in Africa to boost food security and decent work. The findings from JobAgri’s pilot project in Ghana, for example, highlight the knowledge gap and how data is key for effective policy making. Building on the momentum from CFS52’s focus on “Promoting decent work in agriculture and food systems,” and aligned with the 2025 CFS Plenary theme on “Strengthening responsible investment and financing for food security and nutrition,” the event showcases how innovative methodologies, robust evidence, and integrated policy dialogues help identify agricultural and employment policy gaps and synergies for targeted interventions to foster decent work in inclusive food systems. By amplifying the voices of policymakers, partners, researchers, and sector experts, and addressing the demographic challenge and the need to boost decent jobs creation in agri-food systems in Africa, the event will offer practical insights and data from real-world experiences. Finally, it aims at guiding governments and stakeholders in advancing better employment opportunities and inclusive sustainable food systems across Africa and beyond.
Organizers: French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development International Labour Organization CARE International International Fund for Agricultural Development
Languages: English
SE35 | Ethiopia room | Meaningful multi-stakeholder collaboration: Why addressing power asymmetries is essential for food system transformation and improved nutrition.
Abstract: Transforming food systems requires multi-stakeholder engagement to enable universal healthy diets, fair livelihood, & ecosystem protection. However, these systems are shaped by profound power asymmetries that are deeply entrenched in political & institutional systems. This event offers space for open, critical dialogue on how power influences food systems. Power asymmetries are fluid & complex across a range of contexts, including sociocultural and urban-rural. Implementation of policies, like scaling agroecology or taxing unhealthy food, is often challenged by them. They hinder design & implementation of policies advancing health, equity, & sustainability, & limit food security & resilience. Addressing power disparities is essential to prevent policy derailment & enable meaningful multistakeholder collaboration. This event builds on UNDP Food & Power Initiative & will show concrete examples of how governments & others navigate power dynamics to change policy & drive transformation.
Organizers: United Nations Development Programme United Nations-Nutrition World Health Organization Secretariat of Food and Nutrition Security, Ministry of Social Development, Family, and Fight Against Hunger, Government of Brazil Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of Uganda Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries of Seychelles UN Human Settlements Programme, UN-Habitat International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems (IPES-Food) UN University International Institute for Global Health World Food Programme Global Alliance for the Future of Food The New Institute Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition International Food Policy Research Institute Agroecology Coalition Institut de Recherche et de Promotion des Alternatives en Developpement en Afrique (IRPAD)
Languages: English
SE36 | Iran room | Harnessing climate and biodiversity investments to realize the right to food for healthy diets and a sustainable planet
Abstract: This side event will showcase how investments that address climate and biodiversity challenges can simultaneously strengthen food systems, uphold the right to food, and deliver healthy diets—particularly in regions facing the greatest burdens of malnutrition and environmental degradation. Through country experiences and global perspectives, the session will feature concrete examples of how integrated investments, policies and partnerships are driving food system transformation. It will highlight tools like true cost accounting to realign incentives alongside locally grounded and integrated solutions that address key imperatives such as the right to food and access to healthy diets while also supporting national climate and biodiversity priorities. The discussion will also spotlight how initiatives such as the Baku Harmoniya climate initiative for Farmers and the Food and Agriculture for Sustainable Transformation (FAST) Partnership are unlocking finance for agrifood systems. Speakers will include government representatives, farmers organization, financial institutions, and research partners, offering a rich exchange on how to scale rights-based, inclusive, and climate resilient food systems. A networking coffee break will follow the event to foster further discussion and collaboration.
Organizers: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Quebec (Canada) World Bank
Languages: English French