The role of governance in the transition towards sustainable food systems

The food systems are a key area in which significant improvements can be made to move towards sustainable development, in all its dimensions. The transition towards sustainable food systems requires, however, that we combine two reforms in how food systems are governed. First, greater accountability is required, both within countries and between countries. Promises which are made must be kept, and targets announced must be met: increasing the political cost of inaction is one way to ensure this happens.

Secondly, we need to favor bottom-up initiatives, in the form of social innovations that can accelerate the search for solutions that put us on the path towards sustainability. This requires a different understanding of the State’s role, and of the relationship between public authorities, civil society and market actors. Improved accountability and paying greater attention to social innovations should therefore be two priorities in the future SDGs.

Keynote Speaker: Professor Olivier De Schutter, UN Special Rapporteur on the right to food.

This plenary presentation is free and open to all!