Four years after the first UN Food Systems Summit, food systems experts say the world still needs stronger action to end hunger and transform how food is produced and distributed. The 2021 summit inspired many national plans: more than 125 countries adopted national pathways and almost 300 commitments were made by civil society. A stocktake of progress will take place this month in Ethiopia.
Science and agricultural research organisations such as CGIAR have supported advances in nutrition and in improved varieties and breeds for crops, livestock and aquatic foods. Millions of children have benefited from foods enriched with micronutrients, including biofortified sweet potato, rice, maize, wheat and cassava. These foods have also created demand and markets for smallholder farmers.
Progress is uneven. New conflicts, rising climate extremes and geopolitical uncertainty have strained efforts. Healthy diets remain unaffordable for almost 3 billion people and many countries face tighter budgets as international aid declines. Authors recommend continued investment in agricultural research, government resources, infrastructure and knowledge sharing, and they urge support for innovative financing linked to climate finance. The CGIAR Flagship Report 2025 is presented as a practical starting point for policymakers.
Difficult words
- summit — a meeting of leaders or experts
- commitment — a promise to do something or helpcommitments
- stocktake — a review of progress or situation
- biofortified — made richer in vitamins or minerals
- smallholder — a farmer with a small farm
- micronutrient — a vitamin or mineral needed in small amountsmicronutrients
- infrastructure — basic physical systems for services and transport
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could your country support smallholder farmers who need markets and demand?
- Which problems mentioned in the article (conflict, climate extremes, aid decline) seem hardest to solve in your region, and why?
- Do you think investing in agricultural research is a good use of public funds? Give one reason for your view.
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