Governance for agrifood systems transformation

They constrain policy choices, and, when ignored or misunderstood, are a persistent source of policy and investment failure. The dynamics of institutional change in specific contexts are complex and uncertain, but analysis is essential for assessing the possibilities and formulating feasible strategies to achieve transformational change.

Understanding relevant governance and political economy concerns – such as the diversity of interests among stakeholders, power imbalances in decision-making processes, and institutional issues that constrain capacities for action – is essential for policy and investment implementation.

Alternative policy choices, resource allocations and other decisions related to food and agriculture often involve trade-offs between economic growth, social equity and sustainable use of natural resources. Innovative governance mechanisms can help reposition different sectors and actors as partners – rather than competitors – in coordinated action towards food systems transformation.

Establishing the societal frameworks needed to transform agrifood systems remains an essential responsibility of states, but the way this responsibility is carried out needs to be adapted to changing circumstances. Broad social participation is needed to sustain the efforts. Cross-sectoral coordination and networks of communication within government as well as across the public-private divide are indispensable means for facilitating the effectiveness of policies and food systems outcomes.