(HMâ 24) FAO Guidebook

Food and Agriculture
Organisation
Guidebook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Welcome Letters
II. Committee Introductions
III. Topic Introduction
IV. Key Terms Definitions
V. Background Information
VI. Current Situation
VII. Forthcoming Challenges
VIII. Causes
IX. Consequences
X. Past Actions
XI. Possible Solutions
XII. Featured Countries / BLOC positions
XIII. Questions To Consider
XIV. Bibliography
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HUYMUN 2024 Guidebook
I
WELCOME LETTER
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FAO logo
Welcome letter
Name: Le Chi Nam
CHAIR
Dear Distinguished Delegates,
My name is Chi Nam, I am currently a sophomore at the

Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV) in International Relations.
This is my sixth year participating in MUN activities. From my
perspective, MUN has encouraged me to improve myself, both
academically and personally. MUN is a great opportunity for me
to voice my opinions, meet new people, and learn new things. At
HUYMUN 2024, it is my tremendous honor to contribute as a
chair for the FAO committee.
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I strongly encourage every delegate to step outside of your

political stance and adapt to your country’s perspective. The
world of MUN is full of varying ideas that may not feel familiar.
The best diplomat is one who can see the world through a million
viewpoints yet still navigate towards compromise and achieving
their goals. For newer delegates, I also have a few words of
advice. Take every opportunity to raise your hand to speak and
jump into a conversation during unmods. Make speeches that
push the committee towards new ideas. It’ll be nerve-wracking at
first, but only by taking the risk will you build your skillset
I’m very excited to see you at the conference. I hope that we will
have a fruitful discussion on this topic and experience an
enjoyable time in HUYMUN 2024.
Best wishes,
Lê Chí Nam
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FAO logo
Name: Nguyen Duc Minh
CHAIR
A warm welcome to the distinguished delegates and esteemed

observers,
My name is Nguyen Duc Minh, a 10th grader currently studying at

Vinschool the Harmony in Long Bien, and it is of utmost delight to
have the opportunity to take part in the Food and Agriculture
Organisation in HUYMUN 2024 as the role of chair.
My first MUN was only last summer, at YEMUN 2023 in Phu Yen
Province. It seemed challenging, going through research pages in
the guidebook and on the Internet.
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The fear of public speeches has always made me shy of

participating in conferences, but to my surprise, I contributed to
the conference more than I had expected. This experience has
made my interest in MUNs grow day by day, and it has led me to
attend more MUNs. From forming “allies”, to chatting with other
delegates during tea breaks, it is something that I believe anyone
can enjoy.
At this year’s HUYMUN FAO conference, delegates will be

addressing the issue of agriculture, the world’s energy security
shortly, as well as the use of agrochemicals. As the population
grows, food sources are pressured into producing more to fulfill
the world’s needs. As a cause of this, the effects of
agrochemicals are often neglected in several nations. Therefore,
it is our goal to share information and views and provide a
resolution to prevent big tech companies from causing harm.
Consequently, it is our mission to share viewpoints and data,
On the last note, I hope that all delegates and observers of the
FAO committee have a great time at the conference, and I wish
you the best of luck!
Sincerely,
Nguyen Duc Minh
7
FAO logo
Name: Nguyen Nam Khanh
CHAIR
Welcome distinguished Delegates, esteemed Observers, and staff

of the house,
May I express my warmest welcome to you all? I am Nguyen Nam

Khanh, a high school student
currently studying at Vinschool the Harmony in Long Bien. It is
my honor to be your chair in this Year’s Food and Agriculture
Organization in Harmony Unified Youth Model United Nations this
year.
My journey with MUN was not a mundane case. I started with

VINMUN 21 as a seventh grader at the same school.
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During my first conference, the insecurity of public speaking

combined with my lack of MUN and international relations
knowledge overwhelmed me, thus I did not perform in my best
interest. 2 years later in the summer of 2023, my peers motivated
me to return to MUN and I started to embrace it more ever since.
With my new knowledge, relationships, and experience, I have
gained a lot more confidence in attending conferences as a
delegate and now I am branching off to being a part of the
organizing team.
After all my MUN conferences, I hope that this time as your chair,
I can experience a memorable
conference at HUYMUN. This is achieved through the cooperation
of every dais, delegate, and
observer during sessions, unmoderated caucuses, and outside
committee sessions as well.
See you on conference day.
Best wishes,
Nguyen Nam Khanh
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Name: Nguyen Ngoc Khanh Chi
CONTENT
DEVELOPER
Greetings Distinguished Delegates,
My name is Nguyen Ngoc Khanh Chi, currently in Year 11 at

Vinschool the Harmony. It is my utmost pleasure to assist you in
your research at HUYMUN 24.
My experience with MUN so far has been brief but memorable and
impactful. What initially started as an invitation from close friends
and participating “just for fun” has reignited my passion and
curiosity for researching global issues. My first conference still
left me in a state of shock and awe, absolutely thrilled,
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recognizing that I could express my country's stance and find my

voice through diplomatic discussions and negotiations. Joining
MUN has undoubtedly sharpened my research skills, helped me
to shape my own identity, and become a better version of myself.
At HUYMUN 24, I hope that you will gain new insights into major
global problems and develop resolutions through collaborating
and discussing, debating and advocating, and more importantly,
growing as individuals, exploring your potentials, and limitations,
and developing meaningful connections.
Sincerely,
Nguyen Ngoc Khanh Chi
11
FAO logo
Name: Nguyen Le Dung
CONTENT
DEVELOPER
Greetings everyone,
I am Lê Dũng, a ninth grader from Vinschool the Harmony, and it

brings me great joy to be a part of the FAO compartment at
HUYMUN 2024.
This journey with HUYMUN has been nothing short of exhilarating,

providing me with a platform to showcase my best self,
particularly in areas that ignite my passion for social awareness.
The vibrant atmosphere of HUYMUN feels like a fertile ground for
personal growth, and I am eager to absorb all
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the knowledge and guidance it has to offer. Collaborating with

seniors in the department is a prospect I cherish, anticipating the
wealth of assistance they can provide in areas where I still find
myself in the shadows.
I would love to see how this MUN would play out, and can’t wait
to witness the wonderful diplomatic abilities of the talented
delegates. Last but not least, I hope you enjoy yourself and have a
good time at our conference. Good luck and best of luck at
HUYMUN 2024.
Your content developer,

Nguyễn Lê Dũng
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II
COMMITTEE
INTRODUCTION
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FAO logo
A. History
On October 16th, 1945, in Quebec, Canada, the Food and
Agriculture Organization was officially founded as a UN agency
after its first conference. Originally 36 nations signed the
Constitution to form the FAO, but that number has now reached
up to 130 members after nearly 79 years in action. Some notably
active members of the agency are the US, the UK, France, etc.
who all seek to either increase the world’s food situation or to be
able to have a platform for discussing trades. Throughout its
lifetime, FAO has had many astounding achievements that had
long-lasting impacts on the world, nominally the Codex
Alimentarius, established by FAO and WHO in 1963 which has
ensured fair food trade and consumer’s health safety up until this
day, or the elimination of the human “river blindness” in 11 West
Africa countries, which saved millions of people from this
dangerous eye infection.
Ever since its birth, FAO has always tried to accomplish a variety
of goals nominally the following: Food source diversity, complete
food security, and minimal dependency on herbicides and
pesticides. The range of action FAO takes to reach these
objectives is considerably wide, from carrying out multiple food
surveys to creating a whole Food Programme to aid areas in
urgent need. It’s undeniable that FAO plays an irreplaceable role
in accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals of the
United Nations 2030 Agenda.
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FAO logo
B. Strategic Concepts and Principles

As straightforward as it is, the main objective of the FAO is to
accomplish the second SDG of the United Nations by 2030, which
is Zero Hunger as well as partially contributing to SDG 1 (No
Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality). It plans to help
communities in different countries to develop their agricultural
industry in a framework composed of 4 components from 2022
to 2031 (FAO, “FAO Strategic Framework 2022-2031”):
Better production: efficient production, with better inclusivity
for supply chains to aim for more resilience to environmental
& climate change
Better nutrition: zero hunger, achieved food security,
increased healthy diet availability.
Better environment: protect and promote sustainable use of
terrestrial and marine resources; battle climate change
Better life: through reducing inequality, and encouraging
inclusive economic growth.
This framework is called the four betters which demonstrate the
social, economic, and environmental aspects of agrifood and
requires a strategic as well as systematic from all FAO
interventions (FAO, 2022). To maximize effect and minimize
cost/trade-offs, FAO plans to make use of 4 so-called
“accelerators” which are: technology, innovation, data, and
complements. Gender, youth, and inclusion will also be
considered with seriousness to strictly follow the UN’s principle
of leaving no one behind.
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FAO logo
C. Council Expectations
Delegates will represent members of the FAO’s Executive Board
(as well as several invited nations) and use their voices to discuss
possible responses to global food security challenges. They are
expected to have a firm grasp of relevant issues, their assigned
country’s stance, and related actions, subsequently utilizing this
information to contribute to the committee’s discussion and
debate.
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III
TOPIC INTRODUCTION
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In the complex tapestry of global food production, certain

nations, such as Brazil, Paraguay, Australia, and Argentina, have
ascended as key players, demonstrating remarkable per capita
food generation. Notably, the United States has taken the lead as
the foremost exporter, contributing significantly to the global
market. Recent years have witnessed a palpable surge in overall
food production, reflecting an increased effort to meet the
escalating demands of a growing global population.
Currently, the 4 leading superpowers in producing food,

measured in food generation per capita, are Brazil, Paraguay,
Australia, and Argentina, with the USA being the largest exporter
of food, up to $50 billion, accounting for approximately 10% of
global exports in 2020. Food production has grown a
considerable amount during the past 3 years, with a 54%
increase between 2020 and 2021, reaching up to 9.5b tonnes of
food. However, this increase does not mask the issues that come
along with growth. As the human population is rapidly growing, its
demand for food also follows, therefore requiring a much larger
product yield from the agricultural sector. However, its quality is
not fully guaranteed due to the extensive use of herbicides,
pesticides, and other agrochemicals, all of which are used to
increase yield, all the while lowering food security. This occurs in
some nations due to the lack of care and regulation of these
chemicals. The consumption of low-quality food can lead to
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damaged health, entangling citizens with even more burdens.

Additionally, production is insufficient in satisfying food-related
needs globally, paired with the fact that food distribution is
ineffective makes it so that the problem remains even if
production increases. Furthermore, 1.3 billion tonnes of food is
wasted annually. This has been generated not only by consumers
but by manufacturers whose products might not reach quality
standards, as mentioned above.
To maintain the high yield of crops yearly, farming companies,

large and small, have resorted to agrochemical use.
Agrochemicals, specifically herbicides and pesticides, are
effective for stopping crops dying prematurely, but in turn,
degrades the quality of the product. This extensive use of
chemicals on food products will grant agricultural businesses
more income, but customer safety is not always their top priority.
It is estimated that in 2023, 4.3 million tonnes of pesticides were
used globally. Unfortunately, this number will be increasing in the
next 4 years, with a projection of 4.41 million tonnes in 2027.
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IV
KEY TERMS DEFINITION
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Term Explanation
A person is food insecure when they lack regular
access to enough safe and nutritious food for
Food
normal growth and development and an active and
insecurity
healthy life. This may be due to unavailability of
food and/or lack of resources to obtain food.
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification

(IPC) is an innovative multi-partner initiative for
improving food security and nutrition analysis and
decision-making. By using the IPC classification
and analytical approach, Governments, UN
Agencies, NGOs, civil society, and other relevant
actors, work together to determine the severity
IPC phase and magnitude of acute and chronic food
insecurity, and acute malnutrition situations in a
country, according to internationally-recognised
scientific standards. The IPC Acute Malnutrition
Scale is a five-phase scale of increasing severity:
Phase 1: Acceptable; Phase 2: Alert; Phase 3:
Serious; Phase 4: Critical; Phase 5: Extremely
Critical.
Can be directly translated to “off-site

Ex-situ conservation," it is a method of protecting
conservation endangered species of plants or breeds of animals
outside of their threatened natural habitat.
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A medical condition that is defined by a

deficiency, excess, or imbalance of energy,
Malnutrition
protein, or other nutrients, leading to severe
tissue damage.
Also known as linear growth failure, it is

Stunting defined as impaired growth and development
manifested by low height-for-age.
The Codex Alimentarius is an international

collection of standards, guidelines, and codes
of practice related to food safety and quality.
Established by the Food and Agriculture
Codex Alimentarius Organization (FAO) and the World Health
Organization (WHO) in 1963, its purpose is to
protect consumer health, facilitate fair
international trade, and promote coordination
among countries.
Chemicals used to manipulate or control

Herbicides
undesirable vegetation.
Chemical compounds used to kill pests,

Pesticides
including insects, rodents, and fungi.
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"When all people, at all times, have physical and

economic access to sufficient, safe and
nutritious food that meets their dietary needs
Food security
and food preferences for an active and healthy
life" according to the World Food Summit in
1996.
The amount of food produced per person in a

Per Capita Food
given country reflects the efficiency and
Generation
productivity of the agricultural sector.
A noticeable and significant increase in the

Food Production overall amount of food produced globally, driven
Surge by efforts to meet the growing demands of the
expanding global population
Gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane

Greenhouse Gas (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N4O), are released into
Emissions the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse
effect and climate change.
The target date set by the UN for global efforts

2030 Deadline to eradicate world hunger, emphasizing the
urgency to address food security issues.
State of Food
Security and A report released by the United Nations (UN)
Nutrition in the providing insights into global food security and
World (SOFI) nutritional trends.
Report
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A United Nations agency providing food

WFP (World Food
assistance and support to vulnerable
Programme)
populations.
A severe and immediate lack of access to

Acute Food
food, often resulting from crises, conflicts, or
Insecurity
other disruptions.
Famine Early Warning A network providing early warnings and

Systems Network analysis on food insecurity to help mitigate its
(FEWS NET) impacts.
A climate phenomenon characterized by the

El Niño periodic warming of sea surface temperatures
in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.
European Union (EU) A report forecasting trends and challenges in

Agricultural Outlook the European Union's agricultural sector.
Financial incentives provided by governments

Implicit and Explicit to support certain industries, including
Subsidies agriculture, which may need realignment for
sustainability.
The coexistence of undernourishment,

Triple Burden of
micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight or
Malnutrition
obesity in a population.
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Economic growth benefits the poor by

Pro-Poor Growth improving their income, employment
opportunities, and overall well-being.
Balancing conflicting interests and finding

Trade-offs and
mutually beneficial solutions, particularly in
Synergies
the context of sustainable development goals.
Involves diverse stakeholders, including

marginalized groups, in decision-making
Inclusive Governance
processes to ensure fair representation and
outcomes.
A system of international trade agreements

Multilateral Trading
involving multiple nations to facilitate global
Regime
commerce.
Involves diverse stakeholders, including

marginalized groups, in decision-making
Inclusive Governance
processes to ensure fair representation and
outcomes.
Resources, such as water and biodiversity,

Transboundary that cross national borders, require
Resources international cooperation for sustainable
management.
Black Sea Grain A trade initiative involving the export of

Initiative Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea region.
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The process where nutrient-rich substances,

often from agrochemicals, enter water bodies,
Eutrophication
leading to excessive growth of algae and
subsequent oxygen depletion.
An international organization focusing on

WWF (World Wide
environmental conservation and
Fund for Nature)
sustainability.
Conservation of genetic material outside its

Ex-situ
natural habitat using methods like freezing in
Cryopreservation
liquid nitrogen.
Educational programs aimed at improving

Farmer Field Schools agricultural practices, including post-harvest
management and climate-smart technology.
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V
BACKGROUND
INFORMATION
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Before delving into specifics, it's crucial to examine the role of

food as well as agriculture as a whole. While it's a fundamental
need for human survival, its significance goes beyond mere
nutrition, representing the ongoing challenge of scarcity. Despite
advancements in growing, hunting, and consuming, including
diverse food sources and innovative tools, there still exists
hunger, famine, and insecure food sources.
Regarding demographic factors such as population, since 1961,

sudden surges in global population have been recorded. In 1951-
1960, the population was estimated to grow by 5%; in the next 10
years, this number increased by a sharp 7%. Despite the peak of
population growth long gone and even starting to decline, it
became apparent that humans have not overcome the problem
yet due to the side effects of our development.
Human evolution, from harnessing fire to illuminating cities

through electricity, has brought extraordinary advancements.
However, each step forward, from burning fossil fuels to high-
speed plane travel, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions,
intensifying climate change. Notably, greenhouse gases (CO2,
CH4, N2O) released into the atmosphere trap heat radiated by the
sun and create the greenhouse effect, causing global warming
(europa.eu, 2023). As a result, climate change
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brings with it a series of challenges and environmental

consequences such as, but not limited to the elevated rate of
natural disasters and the extensive use of herbicides and
pesticides (agrochemicals). These environmental challenges,
compounded by the consequences of climate change, have
resulted in an increased global level of food insecurity. Changing
weather patterns, extreme events, and soil degradation have
disrupted traditional agricultural practices, making it challenging
for communities to rely on conventional methods of food
production.
International conflicts, notably the Russia-Ukraine conflict

contribute significantly to global food insecurity. These conflicts
disrupt the intricate web of the food supply chain, impacting
agricultural production, distribution, and access on a global scale.
In these conflicts, there will inevitably be widespread
displacement, destruction of vital infrastructure, and trade
disruptions, all of which profoundly impact local and global food
supply chains. These historical and contemporary instances
underscore the intricate relationship between conflict and food
security, emphasizing the imperative need for comprehensive
solutions that address the multifaceted challenges posed by
conflicts worldwide.
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Over the last century, responses to global food security

challenges have been shaped by multiple factors, including
population growth, climate change, and economic factors.
Governments play a crucial role in formulating and implementing
policies that directly impact agriculture, trade, and social welfare
programs, for example, FAO itself or individual government food
banks like the ones set up during the COVID-19 pandemic.
International collaborations further enhance the collective effort
to address global food security issues, fostering knowledge-
sharing, resource allocation, and coordinated responses to crises.
A critical aspect of this involves addressing trade policies, which
can significantly impact the availability and accessibility of food.
A quintessential government policy would be to remove trade
tariffs and red-tape procedures on food imports. Striking a
balance between domestic food production and international
trade agreements is essential to prevent detrimental effects on
local food supplies and ensure a sustainable and secure global
food system.
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VI
CURRENT SITUATION
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1. The food security situation in the world

In addition to conflicts and weather patterns linked to the
climate issue, the global pandemic has postponed the 2030
deadline for ending world hunger. An increase in the number
of individuals experiencing hunger in recent years has been
revealed by a new report released by the United Nations (UN).
The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI)
report estimates that since 2019, an additional 122 million
people have experienced hunger. The number of people who
are hungry worldwide has plateaued between 2021 and 2022,
but there are still numerous places where food crises are
getting worse, which has prompted demands for an
international effort to address the underlying causes of food
insecurity. Acute food insecurity is still at record highs in 2023
as a result of ongoing food crises and fresh shocks. There are
238 million people in 48 countries that suffer from severe
food insecurity, which is 10% greater than in 2022.(“Global
Food Crisis: What You Need to Know in 2023 - World |
ReliefWeb”)
2. Middle East & North Africa

In Yemen, Gaza, and Syria—three major hunger hotspots-
food insecurity is severe and getting worse. The WFP said on
December 4, 2023, that it will terminate its primary aid
program in Syria in January of 2024. In Syria, 12 million
people do not have regular access to food. This coincides
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with a period of unprecedented food insecurity brought on by

budget cuts. (Chehayeb) Smaller relief efforts (such school lunch
programs and projects to renovate Syria's bakeries and irrigation
systems) will go on. Gaza's food supply has been negatively
impacted by both the restricted flow of humanitarian supplies
and the direct devastation of its production and distribution
networks. The only staple foods left are in small supply and are
priced exorbitantly, primarily rice and vegetable oil. The FAO
released its October 2023 High-Frequency Monitoring Snapshot
of Yemen on December 3. The report indicates that food security
had improved from the previous month, mostly because
important seasonal harvests had begun. October 2023 saw
generally constant food prices, although 34% of households still
experience food insecurity that is Crisis or worse (IPC Phase 3+).
3. Latin America and Caribbean

Acute food insecurity throughout Latin America and the
Caribbean is being driven by economic restrictions in Venezuela,
climatic shocks in Central America, and insecurity in Haiti,
according to the most recent Food Security Outlook published by
the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET) for
October 2023 to May 2024. Food costs are rising and income
sources are being disrupted in Haiti due to persistent gang
violence and economic hardship. Families in Port-au-Prince
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neighborhoods under gang control are either going through an

emergency (IPC Phase 4) or selling possessions due to acute
food shortages. Food shortages will persist in Central American
rural communities impacted by El Niño-related rainfall
deficiencies, potentially resulting in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) scenarios.
Households are predicted to exhaust their food supplies from
February to May despite some food reserves from previous
harvests. With low earnings, ongoing debt, and consistently high
food prices, they could not be able to buy enough food. In
addition, severe drought in Panama has reduced cargo
allowances and vessel transit via the Panama Canal. For the time
being, the region's staple grain supplies are mainly unaffected,
but if the disruption persists, freight rates might increase until
February 2024, driving up the cost of items that pass via the
canal on the regional market.
4. Europe & Central Asia

On December 7, during the EU agricultural outlook conference,
the European Commission announced an agricultural outlook for
the European Union for 2023-35: a transitioning and resilient EU
farming sector will cope with difficulties and embrace
possibilities. The adaptability of EU farmers will be put to the test
in the upcoming years by shifting market and climatic conditions
as well as shifting social demands. The variety
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of extreme weather events will continue to hinder agricultural

production development while consumption of beef, pork, sugar,
and wine is likely to fall. As a result, the agriculture industry is
adjusting to changing customer tastes and climate conditions. In
the medium run, energy and other input costs are predicted to stay
higher than they were before to 2021. In order to assist farmers in
making the shift to more resilient and competitive agricultural
production systems, the Common Agricultural Policy is still
essential. The European Union will keep contributing to global food
security and remaining a net exporter.
The World Bank provided funding for the Ukrainian Ministry of
Agrarian Policy and Food to conduct an ongoing analysis of how
the conflict has affected the profitability of the agriculture industry.
The findings indicate that while losses in the cultivation of grains
and oil crops in Ukraine's agricultural sector are expected to decline
in 2023, the production of the country's three main crops—wheat,
barley, and corn—will continue to be unprofitable. Soybeans are
predicted to be profitable even though they only make up 11% of all
farmed land.
5. South Asia
According to the most recent data, Bhutan's rice production
decreased from 41,520 tonnes in 2018 to 26,680 tonnes in 2022. The
official causes of the 5.2 percent
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annual inflation in food product prices through October 2023

include labor shortages, agricultural losses, and a lack of
government assistance. Although sugar import limits have been
loosened by India, the volume of sugar is still too low to draw in
exporters. Since the government imposed a value-added tax on
imported vegetables—which is purportedly incorrectly applied to
indigenous output as well—industrial disputes have impacted
Nepal's food industry. In a show of protest, vendors selling
potatoes and onions, two important foods in Nepal, stopped
trading for three days.
A humanitarian catastrophe has arisen in Afghanistan as a result
of the combined effects of several different events. As the nation
approaches its third year of drought and its second year of
catastrophic economic decline, two-thirds of Afghanistan's
population, or 28.8 million people, are in urgent need of
humanitarian aid. This number is 16% higher than the 24.4 million
in 2022 and 54% higher than the 18.4 million in 2021. Acute food
insecurity at the Crisis or Emergency levels (IPC Phase 3 or 4) is
present in all 34 provinces of the nation, impacting 17.2 million
people, or 40% of the total population. 8 percent of the
population, or nearly 3.4 million people, experience emergency
(IPC Phase 4) food insecurity. The reduction in agricultural
productivity due to conflict and climate disasters has had a
significant impact on household economic well-being.
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6. West & Central Africa

According to the results of a technical validation meeting
conducted in November as part of the West Africa Food Crisis
Prevention and Management Mechanism, the projected amount
of cereal production for the 2023–2024 crop year is 76.5 million
tons. This represents a 3% increase over the average for the
previous five years, but a 2% decrease from the previous season.
Projections show that production in Chad, Mali, Niger, and Nigeria
decreased from the previous year. Dry periods throughout the
growing season, insecurity that prevented access to agriculture
in Chad, Mali, and Niger, and unfavorable macroeconomic
conditions that hindered access to agricultural inputs in Nigeria
are all blamed for this decline.
Food insecurity is expected to grow between November and
April 2024 in major food insecurity hotspots in Burkina Faso,
Chad, Mali, and Niger, according to a recent assessment from the
WFP and FAO. These projections in Burkina Faso and Mali are
primarily driven by increasing levels of violence, forced
displacement, and the consequent disruption of trade and
agricultural activity. Because of the violence in neighboring
Sudan, instability, and the possibility of flooding, food insecurity
in Chad is predicted to get worse. In Niger, conflict, high food
prices, challenges in providing humanitarian assistance,
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macroeconomic challenges, and political instability contribute to

the risk of further deterioration in food security assessment
period, 1.1 million of whom are facing Emergency (IPC Phase 4) and
70,000 facing Catastrophic (IPC Phase 5) conditions.
7. Eastern & Southern Africa

By May 2024, up to 63 million people in eastern and southern
Africa would experience food insecurity. After supply increased
from the October to December crop, staple prices in East Africa
have decreased or stayed unchanged. Food prices in southern
Africa are predicted to rise during the current lean season due to
low supplies and persistent economic difficulties.
According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification
(IPC) Phase 4+, Ethiopia (17 million people), Sudan (11 million
people), South Sudan (8 million people), and Somalia (4 million
people) are the anticipated hotspots in eastern and southern
Africa. In Ethiopia, parts of Tigray recuperating from the conflict
of 2020–22 and the pastoral south and southeast recovering
from the drought of 2020–23 still have inadequate household
capacity to produce and buy food. Except for Tigray, over 3.3
million people were still internally displaced as of June due to
conflict or drought throughout the nation. El Niño generated high
rainfall, and flooding will increase the number of people
experiencing Crisis (IPC Phase 3) or
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worse outcomes in urban areas and internally displaced persons

settlements in riverine areas alongside the migration of internally
displaced persons from rural areas. Recessional cultivation
opportunities will present income-earning opportunities from
agricultural labor and food as well as income from the
recessional harvest around March/April, which will increase food
security in the nation, even though the main deyr agricultural
season has been severely disrupted in flooded areas.
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VII
FORTHCOMING
CHALLENGES
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1. Sustainably improving agricultural productivity to

meet increasing demand
The demand for agricultural products, including food, is
expected to rise by 50% between 2012 and 2050. Due to factors
including population expansion, urbanization, and increases in per
capita income, demand will shift structurally, and the natural
resource base that supports agriculture will be under growing
stress. Future challenges will center on maximizing output while
protecting and bolstering family and small-scale farming
livelihoods.
Globally, significant gains in resource conservation and
resource-use efficiency will be required to meet the expanding
and shifting demand for food as well as to stop and reverse
environmental degradation. Although there has been some
advancement in technology, the remarkable rise in yields
observed in earlier decades has greatly decreased. The
detrimental impacts of heavily utilizing chemical inputs in
agricultural production are becoming more apparent and provide
significant sustainability issues.
Increased spending on research and development as well as
investments in forestry, fisheries, and agriculture are necessary,
especially for low-income nations. To encourage the use of
sustainable production methods and systems, such as
conservation agriculture, agroforestry, nutrition-sensitive
agriculture, integrated crop-livestock and aquaculture-crop
42
systems, and sustainable forest and fisheries management, this

is necessary. In addition to addressing demands unique to each
nation and gender in certain situations, these and other types of
climate-smart agriculture will assist farms, ecosystems, and
communities adapt to, mitigate, and increase resistance to
climate change. Additionally, a realignment of implicit and explicit
agricultural subsidies is required because current price
incentives and supports frequently conflict with sustainable
agriculture.
2. Addressing climate change and intensification of

natural hazards
The deterioration of land, forests, water, fish stocks, and other
natural resources; decreased rates of productivity growth; and
increased strain on already vulnerable agricultural livelihoods
and ecosystems are just a few of the issues raised by climate
change and natural and human-induced disasters. The well-being
of the present and future generations depends on preserving the
planet's natural resource base's ability to feed the expanding
global population, all the while minimizing agriculture's negative
environmental and climatic effects.
After 2030, the effects of climate change will progressively
imperil human livelihoods and food security. The availability of
food is impacted by climate change, which also negatively affects
crop yields, seafood supplies, and animal health. It restricts food
43
access by having a detrimental effect on rural livelihoods and

incomes. One important "hunger-risk multiplier" that is believed to
exist is climate change. According to some predictions, an
additional 120 million people—24 million of whom will be children
—will be at danger of undernourishment by 2050 as a result of
climate change; over half of this increase is expected to be
concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa.
The negative effects of climate change will marginally outweigh
the beneficial ones until 2030. Warmer temperatures will cause
plants to grow more quickly, which will mostly benefit temperate
zones at higher latitudes. Conversely, tropical zones at lower
latitudes would experience more negative effects. After 2030,
negative effects will worsen, with notable yield losses across the
majority of the world no longer offset by increases in production
in other regions. Climate change will cause extreme events,
including droughts and floods, to worsen and occur more
frequently. Because climate change affects food safety and the
micronutrient content of some foods, it may also have an impact
on nutritional results. Furthermore, warm temperatures and
severe storms produce a more favorable habitat for
microorganisms found in food that hinder the body's capacity to
absorb nutrients.
44
3. Eradicating extreme poverty and reducing

inequality
Approximately 2.1 billion people remain in poverty, with 700
million of them living in extreme poverty, despite advances in
global economic growth and a decline in poverty during the
previous 30 years. The goal of ending poverty is being hampered
by high and rising inequality. Pervasive disparities still exist
between rural and urban areas, between regions, between ethnic
groups, and between men and women, even in nations where
poverty has decreased.
The majority of the world's impoverished and hungry are from
rural areas where they make pitiful wages from forestry, fishing,
and agriculture. Agriculture is the key to reducing poverty and
hunger since it is the primary source of income for the poor and
accounts for a large portion of their household budgets. Many
people are now living in poverty in areas where economic growth
has been sluggish due to the structural transformation of
agriculture.
A key growth factor that benefits the poor is agriculture.
Increasing production and profitability, connecting farmers to
markets, and offering effective extension and agricultural
advising services are all necessary to reduce rural poverty. Pro-
poor growth is dependent on more variables than only
agriculture, though. Access to high -quality education, economic
diversification into non-farm businesses in rural areas,
45
encouragement of job development, and sufficient social safety

nets are all necessary.
Everywhere they go, women typically encounter more obstacles
than men to accessing economic opportunities, productive
resources, and decision-making. For farming women, the lack of
access to agricultural supplies, services, loans and markets
impede agricultural productivity growth and agricultural
production, making the tough journey out of poverty especially
difficult. The gender gap in resource availability is the only reason
why female workers in sub-Saharan Africa are 20–30% less
productive than their male counterparts in the agricultural sector.
Investing far more is necessary to end extreme poverty and
hunger. However, there will be a need for external support to
investment programs through international financial cooperation
due to the low existing levels of capital formation and the limited
"fiscal space" in low-income nations.
4. Ending hunger and all forms of malnutrition

The world's population will continue to grow, but it will be
disproportionately concentrated in nations where food insecurity
is severe. Growth in average per capita income is predicted to
improve nutritional results, but in the coming decades, those
nations will still have ifficulties in tackling the triple burden of
malnutrition, which consists of undernourishment, micronutrient
deficiencies, and overweight.
46
It is anticipated that population expansion in low-income

nations will lead to sharp rises in the demand for staple foods
including plantains, roots, and tubers. Simultaneously, changes in
dietary habits will be brought about by urbanization and income
growth, leading to considerable rises in the demand for meat,
dairy, and grain goods. The increased consumption of animal
products and high-fat, high-sugar diets, along with sedentary
lifestyles in cities, will raise the risk of overweight and obesity.
To eradicate hunger in the next 15 years, low- and middle-
income countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean
must prioritize improving vulnerable populations' food availability
and urban food security. Agriculture and food systems must
meet the food and nutritional demands of individuals with rising
incomes and changing diets, as well as the needs of an increasing
number of impoverished and hungry people. While increasing
farm production has received a lot of attention to meet this
demand, supply chains that connect farmers to urban markets, as
well as measures like pricing policies and social protection, are
also critical in ensuring that consumers have access to nutritious
and safe food at reasonable prices.
Dietary changes will have a significant impact on the
environment, including increased greenhouse gas emissions and
resource use. Increased consumption of milk and meat,
especially from ruminants, leads to higher emissions of methane
47
from enteric fermentation, carbon dioxide from deforestation for

grazing, and nitrous oxide from feed production. Processed food
consumption demands more water and energy, which can
negatively influence the environment if not managed responsibly.
More research is needed, but data suggests that low-impact
diets can also promote excellent health. For example, national
dietary guidelines that suggest lower red meat intake, particularly
among high-consumer groups, could help limit GHG emissions.
5. Addressing the need for coherent and effective

national and international governance
Addressing food and agriculture concerns requires coordinated
policy measures at both national and international levels due to
their linked nature. Designing sector-specific policy-making
techniques will be challenging due to historical performance and
gaps in global and national governance, regulatory frameworks,
monitoring, and accountability.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and related
global accords emphasize the interconnection of the issues that
the global community faces on its journey to sustainable
development. They understand the necessity to combine diverse
measures to achieve linked objectives, which will require new
technical demands on policymakers and institutional
arrangements at all levels of governance. The challenges include
reinforcing instruments at different levels of governance,
48
minimizing trade-offs, and leveraging synergies between SDGs,

sectoral policies, and stakeholders at various levels (local,
municipal, provincial, national, regional, and international).
Inclusive governance is necessary to improve debate around
difficult policy decisions. Engaging the poor, who lack the political
power to influence decisions, is vital to avoid marginalization and
promote development.
Competition for natural resources can deprive the rural poor of
their livelihoods, particularly in crisis, conflict, and disaster zones.
Recognizing the poor's rights to natural resources is a key
governance challenge. This can be achieved by implementing
voluntary guidelines for responsible land, fisheries, and forest
tenure, as well as supporting the right to adequate food.
Improved natural resource governance, based on governance of
tenure, is crucial for resolving conflicts over land, water, fisheries,
and forests, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring ecosystem
services, particularly in vulnerable areas with fragile institutions.
International collaboration has a significant role. Agriculture
relies heavily on transboundary resources. Environmental
changes impact resource availability, migratory patterns, and
human activity. Extreme events, like forest fires, species
invasions, pests, and diseases, can cross national lines. To
effectively address climate-related risks and vulnerabilities, local
and national policies and institutions require international
cooperation and frameworks.
49
Improved governance is needed in areas such as financing

inclusive food and agriculture development, addressing
employment and migration challenges, addressing shortfalls in
the multilateral trading regime, and providing open access to data
and statistics to empower all stakeholders in governance.
50
VIII
CAUSES
51
A. Lack of sufficient food supply

1. Poverty
It is an undeniable fact that no matter how sufficient the food
supply is for a country, the amount of money in each household
will determine the amount of food that they have access to.
Poverty directly links to food security as an active hindrance to
getting a sufficient supply of food for individuals and households
inside a country.
Sub-Saharan Africa has the greatest rates of food insecurity in
2017, according to statistics gathered by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture. More than any other region, 34% of the cases there
were in a severe state. Furthermore, only 11% of the world's food
insecurity was found in high-income countries, compared to 58%
in low-income nations. The ability of people to obtain food is
significantly impacted by poverty within nations and among their
populations.
Poverty is considered an active cause of food insecurity.
However even if the individual or family are in a stable financial
situation, there are still some passive causes that are out of their
control, affecting the amount of food they have access to.
2. Food shortage
Firstly, a food shortage is defined as when the food supplies in a
certain region cannot provide the necessary energy and
nutrients needed for that region’s population. In other words, the
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population in that area does not have enough nutrients and

energy from food to live healthily. Areas with a food shortage can
have one of many causes.
The issue of lack of a nutritious food supply. It has been proven
by science that to live healthily, one must have a balanced diet
consisting of the main essential macronutrients, vitamins,
minerals, and water. Some areas might only have access to food
with only one or two of these groups of nutrients, leading to
deficiency disease in others. Foods such as those high in fats,
sugar-sweetened, or highly processed can be considered
unhealthy and could lead to various ailments. The real issue with
these foods is that they tend to be fairly cheap. As a result, many
underdeveloped areas can only afford these food sources and
are malnourished. An example of this would be the Republic of
Nauru. With an underdeveloped population and only having
access to highly processed food, the country is regarded as one
of the most obese countries in the world at over 90%. This
proves that even with a large supply of food if the food supply is
not sufficiently nutritious, the effects of food security can still be
apparent.
3. Food waste
In contrast, one of the more nuanced causes of food scarcity is
the amount of perfectly edible food that humans throw out each
year. It is estimated that over 2.5 billion tons of food is wasted in
one way or another each year. The perfectly edible food that is
53
wasted can be reused to feed those in need.

Throughout the distribution channel from producer to
consumer, food is wasted in many stages. Firstly, food can be lost
on farms due to a common practice of dumping. It's either due to
bad weather or pest damage that can affect the quality of the
food. However, even perfectly edible crops are left unharvested
because transportation costs to the consumer are more than
what revenue can cover. It is estimated that farmers dumped 3.7
million gallons of milk per day due to a lack of demand because
of the COVID-19 pandemic. This effect can also be seen in some
food packaging warehouses and manufacturing parties. Many
food items can already be damaged or get damaged during
packaging and handling, not to mention expiry. Damaged food
items due to quality control issues cannot be sold to the market
even though some are perfectly edible. This is due to the fact that
companies try to keep their foods in perfect appearance to
prevent customer’s distaste.
Secondly, households are responsible for the largest portion of
food waste at around 40 to 50% of all food waste. Most
households reported in the United States are responsible for
food waste due to 3 main reasons, overbuying, over-preparing,
and date label confusion. Overbuying tends to happen during a
period of promotion by the retailer. Over-preparing usually
occurs at large family meals where a lot of food is prepared and
less of it at restaurants and dinners where customers tend to
54
leave some edible portions of food behind that are then often
discarded. Finally, some date labels stating “expires at” or “ best
by” confuse consumers as to which exact date at the exact time
is their food no longer edible.
4. Unequal food distribution

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 9
aims to reduce inequality, mainly revolving around inequality in
terms of gender, social status, ethnicity, beliefs, etc. In the context
of food insecurity, according to the Food and Agriculture
Organization, inequality can have an effect socially, economically,
and politically.
Firstly, inequality is based on financial capability and social
status. There is no surprise in the fact that those who are higher
up in the social hierarchy ladder have access to more food.
However, it is important to note that a wider issue starts to
emerge from that. Those who are more financially capable tend
to reside in bigger cities where commodities are close by and
offer a wide range of different foods. In more rural areas,
infrastructure is limited so people tend to resort to farming and
growing their food on fairly small scales, not enough for an
atomic family.
Secondly, the more widely recognized form of inequality is
related to gender and ethnicity. It is reported by the United
Nations that the world could feed another 150 million people if
women have the same access to food as men do. In less
55
developed countries, women are responsible for farming,

harvesting, and selling foods, not having much for their own
consumption. Racially, however, it is observed that Caucasians
are more food secure than other ethnicities. This is not to say
that they are responsible for this inequality but just that other
ethnicities have less access to nutritional food.
B. Environmental
Environmental factors play a crucial role in shaping the global
landscape of food security, presenting significant challenges that
impact both developed and developing nations. Climate change,
water scarcity, soil degradation, and extreme weather events are
among the key environmental factors that contribute to the
complexities of ensuring a stable and sustainable food supply.
Climate change is a major driver of food security challenges,
altering temperature patterns and precipitation levels. Rising
temperatures can lead to shifts in growing seasons, affecting the
productivity of crops and causing disruptions in traditional
agricultural practices. Extreme weather events, such as floods,
droughts, hurricanes, and wildfires, are becoming more frequent
and intense due to climate change, posing immediate threats to
agricultural production. These events can result in crop failures,
livestock losses, and disruptions in food distribution systems,
exacerbating food insecurity. Inevitably, humans have to result to
herbicides and pesticides to control the condition in which our
56
crops grow. The ever worsening climate situation further

motivates farmers to use more agrochemicals.
Water scarcity is another critical environmental factor affecting
food security. As climate change intensifies, regions are
experiencing altered precipitation patterns and increased
evaporation, leading to more frequent and prolonged droughts.
Limited access to freshwater for irrigation hinders crop growth,
reducing yields and compromising the overall food supply.
Additionally, water pollution further diminishes the quality and
quantity of available water resources, posing additional
challenges to agricultural sustainability. Furthermore, coastal
regions experienced saline soil which endangered the granary of
many countries such as Vietnam or the Phillipines.
Last but not least, Soil degradation is a persistent issue
exacerbated by various environmental factors, including
deforestation, improper land management, and the use of
chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Degraded soil quality
diminishes its ability to support healthy crop growth, reducing
agricultural productivity and contributing to food insecurity.
Moreover, the loss of biodiversity in ecosystems, including
pollinators essential for crop reproduction, further threatens
food production.
57
C. War and Conflicts

War and conflict are some of the more apparent causes leading
to food insecurity. As much infrastructure is damaged, labor is
redirected into producing rations for the military and not enough
to meet commercial demands, certain foods become more
scarce. The recent Russia-Ukraine conflict shows how a localized
conflict affected the worldwide wheat industry.
Ukraine is regarded as an agricultural powerhouse, responsible
for 50% of the world's sunflower oil export, 18% of barley, 16% of
corn and maize as well as 12% of the world’s wheat. According to
a study by the EU, Ukraine mainly exports these agricultural
products to countries in the African and Asian regions. The
European Union is also heavily dependent on the export of
Ukrainian wheat through the Black Sea Grain Iniatives which
aimed to unblock Ukrainian ports during the middle of 2022,
promoting Ukrainian grain trades through the Black Sea area.
However, Russia's stepping out of the Black Sea Grain Initiative
one year later caused a rise in global wheat prices. Cereals like
corn, wheat, and barley are some of the most commonly
consumed items. European cuisine has bread as a large portion
of it. Furthermore, corn and barley are also used for animal feed
as well as the fermentation of alcoholic beverages which are
consumed in high quantities in the European Union. The Russia-
Ukraine conflict led to a 29% decrease in Ukraine's grain
58
production from 2022 to 2023. Right when the operation started,

grain prices rose by nearly 30% worldwide. The FAO also
estimated the conflict could raise the number of undernourished
people from 7.6 million to over 13 million in 2022 and 2023.
59
IX
CONSEQUENCES
60
A. Environmental
As previously mentioned, environmental causes that stem from
human influences have significant effects on the environment
and ultimately, the food industry. Environmental factors such as
soil, air, water, and biodiversity directly affect the amount and
quality of food that can be produced. Soil low in nutrients,
polluted waters, or a bad harvest can all lead to food insecurity.
However, the way that environmental causes affect the food
industry goes beyond just food insecurity.
Firstly, environmental factors that are essential for crop growth
become mostly permanently damaged. Heavy use of
agrochemicals, constant exploitation of resources,
overharvesting, and pollution cause long-term damage. Once the
soil is damaged, for example when its nutrient contents drop to
alarming rates, it takes millennia to be able to fully recover. The
amount of nutrients in the soil comes from eras of decomposers
breaking down dead organisms into nutrients for plants to feed
on. As such, recovery takes a long time. In another case with
water pollution, it is commonly known that solid wastes such as
plastic, take a significant amount of time to fully decompose.
Other types of wastes such as chemicals require the constant
flow of water bodies to be diluted and washed down to suitable
levels. Furthermore, climate change can also take a long time to
stabilize and be predictable again. Climate patterns form over
61
millions of years due to factors such as air pressure, wind,

sunlight, land area, ocean, and rain. Sudden climate changes can
make harvests more unpredictable and lower the chances of
getting a good harvest.
This creates a feedback loop that leads to more resource
exploitation and environmental damage. Food insecurity puts a
strain on the food industry globally or of that particular region to
produce more food to meet the demand of consumers. As such,
more extreme measures are used to produce more food.
Specifically, more resource exploitation, over-harvesting, and use
of agrochemicals. This can improve the food situation in the short
term, however, this leads back to how these actions can affect
the output of food produced. As a result, in the long term, the
environmental factors that are essential for food production will
further be damaged and cannot produce quality food, creating a
feedback loop that continues to exacerbates the process the
more humanity gets caught in it.
Secondly, all environmental factors on Earth are heavily
connected together. Due to this, an action being done in one area
can also have a significant effect on another area even though it
is far away. According to the WWF, some domestic waste that
goes down sewage systems is not big enough to be filtered
properly by treatment plants, making its way to the ocean and
getting consumed by marine species. A similar case can be seen
with the use of agrochemicals. Excess agrochemicals can soak
62
into the soil and not only do they damage the local soil, but
groundwater can carry them to other areas, even across
continents, leading to eutrophication. Eutrophication is when
substances that enrich the nutritional content of soil get leached
into bodies of water and promote agal growth. Increased growth
in algae leads to less oxygen in the water as well as blocking
sunlight. It is estimated that sixty-five percent of the estuaries
and coastal waters in the contiguous U.S. that have been studied
by researchers are moderately to severely degraded by
excessive nutrient inputs. This can also occur over a very wide
area since agrochemicals can be carried by river or ocean
currents.
B. Social
The issue with food security, starting from various causes,
ultimately affects the social aspect of many people, as well as
society as a whole. This ongoing problem causes huge negative
effects on healthcare, labour, productivity, and social stability.
1. Health and Well-being

As food sources are getting more scarce, and their quality is not
guaranteed, the health and well-being of many communities have
been deteriorating. Due to the increased use of agrochemicals,
food products are absorbing harmful substances, making them
toxic and damaging food safety. When consumed, these food
products will transfer the agrochemicals into the human body,
63
which leads to increased health risks. For example: cancer, birth

defects, reproductive harm, immunotoxicity, neurological and
developmental toxicity, and disruption of the endocrine system.
In some other cases, where unsafe products are regulated much
more securely, the amount of food available to the general public
decreases drastically. With high demand and low supplies, the
prices of these products are bound to increase as a result of
competition between customers. As a result, families with a lower
income will suffer from hunger and malnutrition due to them not
being able to pay the high food prices. Another factor in this
issue is the availability of unhealthy food sources. Due to the
increased prices and low-quality standards, families with low
income, or living in low-income areas, have resorted to
consuming cheaper, processed food. Even though they are
considered “safer”, processed food like canned food, ready-to-eat
meals, or instant food do not provide the necessary nutrition to
be considered healthy. As the British Heart Foundation states:
“Ultra-processed foods often contain high levels of saturated fat,
salt and sugar and when we eat them, we leave less room in our
diets for more nutritious foods. It's also been suggested that the
additives in these foods could be responsible for negative health
effects.” Combined, these two consequences create a low living
standard. When these products are sold and consumed more and
more, it creates a cycle where less fortunate families keep on
buying low-quality food to survive.
64
This cycle ultimately damages food safety amongst the poor.

As a consequence of deteriorating health, hospital visits become
more frequent, adding to the monthly fees for food-insecure
households. Individuals are not the only ones who are harmed,
though, governments are also affected by food insecurity. Rising
healthcare costs have been an issue for both the healthcare
system and citizens. Due to the increase in attendance, some
hospitals are constantly fully occupied, leaving no room for
patients with worse conditions.
2. Labour, Productivity, and Social Instability

As it is mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the consumption
of unsafe food leads to a plethora of dangerous health issues.
Most low-income families have occupations based on labour and
power-intensive work, due to the probability that they have not
received proper education at younger ages. Consequently, with
the aforementioned consequence of deteriorating health from
unsafe and highly processed foods and with health being the
most important aspect of this type of work, the productivity that
workers bring to the table will be greatly injured. Furthermore,
most of these types of occupations offer pay by hourly wage
rates or pay according to performance. With lower productivity,
the workers will receive less pay, depriving them of any chance
to purchase quality food. Not only that, certain cases of illnesses
may even render citizens unable to participate in work, worsening
their situation.
65
Issues don’t only arise for workers from leaving work or

diminished productivity, however. Workers can also be absent
from work due to their family members becoming ill, taking time
off to care for the sick. Moreover, some might even work through
their illnesses, which puts their life on the line.
Another problem that comes from damaged food security is
social unrest. As a consequence to the statements mentioned
above, social instability ultimately comes from citizen
dissatisfaction. When food security is not guaranteed, both non-
violent and violent group acts will occur. These include: Organised
and unorganised riots, organised and unorganised protests,
boycotting, and more recently, utilising social media. The actions
mentioned will have a detrimental effect on the nation’s
government. As political parties try to find a solution, many more
problems may arise. In some certain scenarios, conflicts can
occur due the need of the scarce resources needed to produce
food-like land-or conflicts over food itself.
66
C. Economic
Economic consequences are directly caused by what happens
to the environment and the social situation of the country. As
previously mentioned above, food security has varied
consequences socially and environmentally. Socially, it affects
the productivity and healthcare of citizens leading to them not
working to their full potential and earning the pay that they
normally deserve. Environmentally it creates a feedback loop,
stemming from the fact in order to keep up with demand, there
would be more drastic measures to improve yields, damaging the
environment and going into the feedback loop. All of these
factors will directly contribute to the economy as well as
determine the food situation of the future.
Firstly, even though the area might be food insecure, the
feedback loop caused by that will affect yield and revenue
generated. In short, food insecurity exacerbates production in a
loop, damaging the environment in the process and lowering
yield in the long term. Economies that rely on the production of
agricultural products will suffer the most since they cannot
produce as much, decreasing GDP and leading to a recession. If
this occurs in a large agricultural powerhouse like China, not only
will the country be at an economic disadvantage but so will other
nations relying on its products. Prices of food will rise as a result,
many will not have access to food, leading to an unhealthy
67
workforce, and slowing down the economy.

Similarly, in order to have a working and thriving economy, a
healthy workforce is required. The importance of a healthy
workforce and its impacts on the economy has been observed
from 2020 to 2022 with the COVID-19 pandemic. A similar
conclusion can be drawn with food security. As previously
mentioned, food insecurity will lead to many health-related
problems such as fatigue, leading to absenteeism, presenteeism,
and labor turnover. A decrease in the workforce directly
correlates with a decrease in production, affecting economic
output. It is estimated that $130 billion will be costed as a result
of illness from hunger. Furthermore, what some do not realize is
the long-term damage that food insecurity can cause to the
economy. It could be reasoned that food insecurity could affect
education in the same way it does to the normal labor workforce.
Workers who experienced hunger as children become less
competitive and efficient once they grow up. It is also estimated
that in total, due to high school absenteeism and repeating
grades, food insecurity led to a loss of $19.2 billion in lifetime
earnings in 2010. Children being absent from school can also
cause parents to be absent from work. All of the disease related
to hunger also rives up healthcare cost to treat them, especially
on a large scale. This leads to an economy where a lot of money
is spend on health care while there is few who work to produce it
for their country.
68
X
PAST ACTIONS
69
1. Timeline
70
71
2. The Food and Agriculture Organisation - FAO (16

October 1945)
One of the most apparent signs of international efforts to
eradicate hunger, malnutrition, and other issues concerning food
security is the committee itself, the Food and Agriculture
Organisation. Ever since its formation on October 16, 1945, after
the United Nations Conference on Food and Agriculture from
May 18 to June 3, two years prior, the FAO has contributed greatly
to the reduction of food security.
In the past decade, Madagascar has been hit by multiple natural
disasters, causing approximately $1 billion in economic damage,
with the agriculture sector in complete ruins. In order to boost
production, with a particular emphasis on sustaining the food
supply, FAO provided drought-resistant seeds and root crops, like
sweet potatoes and cassava, to 850,000 people in the most
affected regions. Furthermore, Farmer Field Schools were
established as a measure to enhance post-harvest management
and employ climate-smart technology. Similar to this, the FAO has
collaborated with the UN Peace Building Fund and the
International Labour Organization (ILO) in Zamboanga City, the
Philippines, a region impacted by a protracted conflict between
rebels and government forces, to assist those impacted in
regaining access to their means of producing food. They have
72
given seaweed production start-up kits and "livelihood training to

around 450 seaweed farming and fishing families" to fishermen
and seaweed producers, the majority of whom are young.
Reducing food waste is also one of FAO’s main priorities. With 1.3
billion tons of food being wasted or lost to landfills annually, it is
believed that the same amount of food could save 800 million ill-
nourished people who are experiencing food insecurity. In many
wealthy nations, there are initiatives in place to decrease food
waste. The WeFood project has established two outlets in
Denmark where it sells surplus food—food that is still edible but
has passed its expiration date. The project is managed by the
Danish nonprofit organization DanChurchACT, which uses the
money it raises from WeFood sales to support its global hunger
and food insecurity relief initiatives.
FAO is renowned for its prior efforts to improve food and
nutrition education and understanding among the less fortunate.
The organization estimates that severe malnutrition claims the
lives of 3 million children annually. Acknowledging this ever-
growing problem, FAO launched a project that is nutrition-
sensitive in order to help fight this problem. The initiative aimed
to increase agricultural output, diversify farmers' goods, and—
above all—improve food and nutrition education. The primary
topics of the teaching program are crop protection, feeding, and
maintenance. Defending against drought, maintaining good
hygiene, and caring for infants aged six to eighteen monthes are
73
a few examples of the subjects covered. Additionally, the FAO has

promoted nutrition education and professional training.
Information sharing is just one step in this process; other
measures include learning about the dangers of unhealthy eating
habits and the advantages of eating well, observing what people
eat and why, talking about diet improvement, figuring out what
motivates people to make changes, and seeing the process
through to the end so that people can become their own
educators.
Recently, the conflict that broke out in Ukraine on February 24,
2022, has left the nation in ruins, with civilian losses as well as
internal and cross-border displacement. The war had also
seriously damaged all aspects of Ukraine's economy, particularly
agriculture, which is the country's main source of income. To help
alleviate these issues, FAO proposed the 2023 Response
Programme for Ukraine, requiring a total of $205 million to assist
rural households and small farmers living on the front-lines by
handing out agricultural production input to ensure that they can
rely on their own products. As of November 30, 2023, the
organisation has raised $45.3 million, with about $160 million left.
After the escalation of war between the two nations, the FAO has
helped over 185,000 rural households and small farmers living on
the front-lines by handing out agricultural production input to
ensure that they can rely on their own products. As of November
30, 2023, the organisation has raised $45.3 million, with about
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$160 million left. After the escalation of war between the two
nations, the FAO has helped over 185,000 rural families with crop
seeds, animal food, and chickens, along with vouchers and cash.
Among these families are 10,000 farmers provided with
temporary grain storage equipment, seeds, and generators.
With a rich history spanning almost 80 years, FAO has proven to
be an integral part of the potential solution to mitigate hunger
and malnutrition. With projects such as Response Plan, not just
for Ukraine but other nations that are facing grave food crisis,
alongside with education on nutrition and reducing food waste,
the organisation demonstrated its commitment to strive towards
a world with no more hunger.
3. First World Food Conference (5-16 November, 1974)

On February 1st, 1973, FAO Director-General Addeke Boerma
issued the first alert to the international press in response to the
ever-growing global food crisis. At their fourth conference, which
took place in Algiers, Algeria, from September 5th to 9th, 1973, the
heads of state or governments of the Non-Aligned Countries
urged that an emergency joint conference of FAO and UNCTAD
be alled at the ministerial level in order to formulate a program of
international cooperation to overcome the growing shortage of
food and other commodities and maintain stable price levels. As
a result, the first World Food Conference was officially held in
Rome, from November 5th to 16th, 1974.
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In recognition of the grave food crisis that were immensely

harming and affecting the lives of the ill-nourished in developing
countries, where two-thirds of the population only had the
capability to produce a third of the food and the undeniable fact
that adequate food production and distribution, as well as the
establishment of a food security system is a major contributing
factor to people's well-being, the Conference adopted the
Declaration on the Eradication of Hunger and Malnutrition. In
which, the Conference proclaimed that “Every man, woman and
child has the inalienable right to be free from hunger and
malnutrition in order to develop fully and maintain their physical
and mental faculties”. Therefore, governments have a
fundamental responsibility to ensure that a higher rate of food
production and a more efficient system of food distribution could
be achieved through international collaboration
One of the primary outcomes of this conference was the
establishment of the International Fund for Agricultural
Development (IFAD), a specialised UN agency, in response to food
insecurity. Following two years of discussions, the agreement
developed the fund, which was approved by 91 nations on June 13,
1976, and made available for signing or ratification on December
20, 1976, once the goal of raising $1 billion in initial commitments
had been reached. The 30th of November 1977 saw the
agreement go into effect.
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The fund aims to channel additional resources toward the

poorest rural populations suffering from chronic hunger and
malnutrition in Africa, the Near East and North Africa, Asia, Latin
America, and the Caribbean. It also provides additional funding
for agricultural and rural development in developing nations. The
fund is distinct in that it only finances initiatives related to
agricultural development, with a particular emphasis on the most
impoverished segments of rural communities in developing
countries, covering every facet of agriculture, such as crops,
cattle, fisheries, storage, irrigation, and agricultural loans.
By allocating financial resources in tandem with proposing loan
policies favourable to the recipient nations, IFAD helped to
alleviate the desperate hunger and malnutrition in developing
countries all over the world. With US$ 7.7 billion in loans and US$
31.9 billion in grants, IFAD funded 617 projects in 115 countries
between 1978 and 2002, helping 47 million rural poor families, or
257 million people. Furthermore, those member countries with
less than $805 per capita in Gross National Product (GNP) that
took loans from the organisation, can qualify for “soft loan”, which
would be repaid over long concession periods of 40 years,
including a grace period, or the total amount of delay for recipient
nations before repaying IFAD, of 10 years. This approach makes
sure that underdeveloped countries don't have to worry too
much about having to repay loans immediately, while also giving
them a sufficient amount of time to deal with food crises.
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The establishment of the World Food Council (WFC), which has

its headquarters in Rome, Italy, was another significant outcome
of the conference in order to mitigate hunger and malnutrition
and accelerate the development of novel agricultural techniques
that will increase food production. Despite negotiating and
advocating for multiple projects, such as a “New Green
Revolution” with particular emphasis on the usage of technology,
and raising awareness of the dire food crisis in developing
countries in annual sessions, WFC’s activities were halted in 1993
and officially shut down in 1996. Its functions were absorbed by
the FAO and World Food Programme (WFP).
In spite of the fact that the first World Food Conference took
place fifty years ago, its impact on the state of nations before
repaying IFAD, of 10 years. This approach makes sure that
underdeveloped countries don't have to worry too much about
having to repay loans immediately, while also giving them a
sufficient amount of time to deal with food crises.
4. The Global Agriculture and Food Security

Programme (GAFSP) (2010)
The Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP) is a
multilateral financing platform with its main objective of
improving food and nutrition security on a global scale. GAFSP,
which was established by the G20 in response to the food price
crisis of 2007–2008, aims to develop resilient and sustainable
food systems and agriculture in the world's poorest and most
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vulnerable nations. In order to reach the financial needs of more

than 16.6 million individuals since its launch in 2010, the Program
has raised more than US$2 billion in donor money.
Acknowledging the fact that in 2016, 24% of the Bangladeshi
population was living in extreme poverty, one of the highest rates
globally, and regions of the country were exceptionally
susceptible to natural disaster, including salt-affected tidal
surges in the south and flash-flood and drought in the north,
creating challenging environments for farming, the GAFSP
launched the Integrated Agricultural Productivity Project (IAPP).
With $50 million of funding, the IAPP mainly concentrated on
providing technical assistance to small farmers, encouraging
local rural communities to enhance their crop, livestock and
fisheries productivity and creating job opportunities for the
locals through promoting entrepreneurship.
When the project came to an end, crop varieties, agronomic
techniques, climate-smart agricultural technologies, and
production technology packages that are more adapted to the
changing environmental and climatic circumstances in target
locations were introduced. It benefitted about 250,000 farmers
who raised crops, fish, and cattle, with almost one-third of them
being female. Furthermore, between 2014 and 2016, IAPP helped
crop producers' income levels rise by 15%, fishermen's income
levels by 37%, and 98% of fish farmers and almost 85% of crop
producers reported that family food consumption had increased.
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Another major programme that GAFSP financed was the

Agricultural Growth Programme (AGP-I) in Ethiopia in response to
the country’s grave food crisis: the majority of Ethiopians
livelihood greatly depended on agricultural activities, and this
sector also accounted for about 45% of GDP, but it was
particularly vulnerable due to inefficient farming methods and
extreme weather conditions. Although the project faced multiple
challenges, in the end, it managed to benefit approximately
700,000 farmers, in which 19% were women, reaching its initial
goal.
With the commitment to increase agricultural production, AGP-I
invested in new small- and micro-scale irrigation and drainage
schemes (26,528 hectares), the rehabilitation of existing schemes
(10,190 hectares), and the promotion of efficient methods and
inputs - such as the optimal use of inorganic fertilisers and new
high-yield variety seeds - as well as proper land preparation.
These improved methods, since their introduction and
implementation, have been adopted by 537,335 farmers,
demonstrating their practicality and efficiency. Another primary
result from the programme were investments in infrastructures
that promised to made markets more accessible, including 90
primary market centres, 8 terminal markets, 175 small bridges,
and 623 kilometres of feeder roads, all of which allowed farmers
to sell and promote their products to customers more directly
and shortened the average distance between targeted
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households and the nearest market.

It is undeniable that the GAFSP has been making continuous
efforts to head towards a world with no more hunger, despite
being founded just over 10 years ago. By financing infrastructure
that helped with food access, providing loans with extended
concessional terms, creating multiple job opportunities and
offering technical assistance and consultancy, the organisation
has helped millions of people and alleviated food insecurity in
developing countries.
5. Sustainable Development Goals (2015)

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, agreed by all
United Nations Member States in 2015, presents a shared
roadmap for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now
and into the future. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),
which represent an urgent call to action for all nations -
developed and developing - in a global partnership, are at the
centre of it. In which, the SDG Goal 2: Zero Hunger, was one of the
primary challenges that the world had to face and overcome, as
the problem of how to ensure adequate amounts of food to
people is still persistent to this day with approximately 735
millions suffering from hunger in 2022 alone. In recent years, this
concern remains prevalent, due to the rate of malnutrition has
been on the rise since 2015, after falling for decades, as a result of
climate change, the locust crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of the major targets of the SDGs Goal 2, is to “end hunger
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and ensure access by all people, in particular the poor and

people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe,
nutritious and sufficient food all year round”, with 2 of its
indicators being the prevalence of undernourishment and food
insecurity in the population, based on the Food Insecurity
Experience Scale (FIES). 2021 witnessed the deteriorating effects
of the COVID-19 pandemic on the world population and, as a
result, food security with around 150 million more people
suffering hunger than in 2019. Furthermore, in the same year, 2.3
billion people, experienced moderate to severe food insecurity,
indicating a rise in population of about 350 million since the start
of the epidemic. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine worsened these
issues, as it is one of the major agricultural exporters, especially
in wheat and sunflower seeds and oil, and the war halted these
activities, creating major shortages in those products.
The target of, by 2030, end all forms of malnutrition, including
stunting and wasting in children under 5 years of age, and
addressing the nutritional needs of adolescent girls, pregnant
and lactating women, made some progress despite facing
multiple challenges. Stunting afflicted an anticipated 148 million
children under the age of five worldwide in 2022, a decrease from
24.6% in 2015. In 2022, 37.0 million children under the age of five
(5.6%) were overweight, and 45 million (6.6%) were wasting. The
number of overweight children worldwide has plateaued, and 17.5
million children will fail the 2030 target if the current patterns
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continue. Furthermore, the startlingly high rate of anemia in

fertile women has been constant since 2000 at 30%, alongside
wasting, low birth weight, and stunting is more prevalent in
economies with poor and lower-middle incomes.
Out of all the targets in this goal, maintaining the genetic
diversity of agricultural products (seeds, cultivated plants, and
livestock) and promoting equitable access to the utilization of
genetic resources seems to have made the most progress. Ex-
situ cryopreservation (conservation of species in reagents such
as liquid nitrogen, outside of their natural habitat) has advanced,
even though 71% of local livestock breeds with a known status
are in danger of going extinct. From 1995 to 2022, the number of
local and transboundary breeds for which adequate material is
available increased from 57 to 287 (out of 7688 local breeds) and
from 31 to 175 (out of 1115 transboundary breeds), respectively. At
the end of 2021, an estimated 5.8 million accessions of plant
genetic resources for food and agriculture were saved under
medium- or long-term conditions in 846 gene banks in 115
countries and 17 regional and international research institutes,
indicating a 1.1% year-on-year growth in 2021.
Although major advancements in mitigating hunger and
malnutrition have been made over the last few decades, such as
the development of new technologies (to increase productivity or
to preserve genetic diversity) and the funding of multiple
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agricultural projects, challenges concerning the pandemic and

ongoing conflicts remain unsolved. To reach the goal of
approaching a world with no more ill-nourished nations and
therefore, a peaceful and prosperous world, further international
collaboration from both donating and recipient countries is
required.
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XI
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
85
A. Metrics
When it comes to assessing solutions, there are a few metrics to
be based upon. Sustainability is a key characteristic that any
good solution should have. If the solution is not sustainable
enough in the long term, it shows that it has no longevity,
therefore it is not worth investing in.
In terms of food source diversification, it is imperative to gauge
the crop diversity index, reflecting the range of crops cultivated
in a given region. A higher diversity index signifies a more
resilient and adaptable food system. Additionally, monitoring
nutrient diversity is crucial to ensure a balanced and nutritious
food supply. This approach aligns with efforts to enhance the
system's resilience to climate change by cultivating crops that
are more resistant to extreme weather events.
In solving the intricate problem of herbicides and pesticides,
reducing overall pesticide use toxicity tests is a primary metric.
This reduction not only signifies a move towards sustainable
agricultural practices but also aligns with environmental and
health concerns. Assessing the toxicity levels of pesticides used
is equally essential to safeguard both human health and the
environment. Furthermore, promoting the adoption of Integrated
Pest Management (IPM) practices is a key metric, emphasizing
the importance of minimizing chemical pesticide use and
encouraging natural pest control methods.
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Considering food security challenges, measuring access to

nutritious food is fundamental. The availability and affordability
of such food, particularly for vulnerable groups, reflect the
efficacy of implemented solutions. Reducing overall food
insecurity is another critical metric, addressing the number of
individuals experiencing undernourishment. Economic stability
within the agricultural sector and the communities involved is
paramount, reflecting the broader impact of the solution on
livelihoods. Additionally, assessing the system's resilience to
external shocks, such as pandemics, economic downturns, or
climate-related events, provides insights into its ability to
withstand and recover from unforeseen challenges.
B. Solutions
1. Supporting the pollinator population
Before agrochemicals were invented, before compost and even
natural fertilizers there were pollinators. Nature’s most effective
life-bringer, pollinators such as bees and wasps speed up the
growth and reproduction of plants massively. Their incredible
speed and numbers outrun any fertiliser-spraying plane by 35%
(Stein et al., 2017). Although man-made fertilizers have come a
long way, though, we may never beat Mother Nature’s best
farmers. However, acknowledging the hidden potential of
pollinators, farmers would still recklessly endanger these
incredible insects using pesticides.
Supporting the pollinator population is a multifaceted solution
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that can significantly address various global food security

challenges. One key element is the promotion of food source
diversification. Pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, play a
crucial role in pollinating a wide range of crops, including fruits,
vegetables, and nuts. By ensuring the health and abundance of
pollinators, we enhance the diversity of crops that can be
successfully grown and harvested. According to the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 75% of global food
crops depend, at least in part, on pollination.
In addition, the support of pollinators strengthens ecosystems
both within agricultural areas and natural habitats. Healthy
pollinator populations contribute to the overall well-being of
ecosystems, fostering a balance between different species. This
not only benefits agriculture but also creates a foundation for a
more robust and diverse natural environment, which is crucial for
long-term sustainability. According to a study published in
Science, maintaining diverse ecosystems, including those
supported by pollinators, enhances the stability and resilience of
food production systems.
Furthermore, a significant aspect of supporting pollinators is the
reduction of reliance on herbicides and pesticides. Pollinators are
sensitive to chemical substances, and their overuse can harm or
even decimate pollinator populations. By adopting pollinator-
friendly practices, we encourage natural pest control
mechanisms. This, in turn, reduces the need for chemical
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interventions and promotes a more environmentally friendly and

sustainable approach to agriculture. Research from the
University of California, Berkeley, highlights that reducing
pesticide use positively correlates with increased pollinator
abundance and diversity.
Addressing food security challenges involves not only
increasing crop yields but also building resilience within
agricultural systems. Pollinators contribute directly to increased
productivity by enhancing the efficiency of pollination. According
to a report by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), the decline of
pollinators poses a threat to global food security, as it can lead to
lower crop yields and increased vulnerability to pests and
diseases. By fostering biodiversity through the support of
pollinators, agricultural systems become more resilient to
environmental changes, pests, and diseases, mitigating the
impacts of these challenges on food security.
2. Food diversification strategies

From the moment mankind began, our food source has always
been dictated by our environment. Statistics from the University
of Houston have researched and confirmed this trend. For
instance, if you were born in a tropical nation, you would most
likely consume rice and pork. On the contrary, if it was a
temperate climate, you would primarily eat wheat and chicken
Johnson and Vollrath, 2018). This overreliance on weather is not
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(necessarily bad given that the earth is not to be tempered with.

However, throughout history, it has been proven that depending
on a singular food source is nowhere near sustainable. Therefore,
food diversification strategies play a pivotal role in tackling global
food security challenges, addressing the outlined agenda of food
source diversification, herbicides and pesticides, and broader
food security concerns.
Implementing food diversification involves cultivating a broad
range of crops. This not only provides a more varied and
nutritious diet but also mitigates risks associated with relying on
a limited number of crops. According to the Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO), more than 95% of the world's calories come
from just 30 species of plants and animals. This highlights the
potential risks associated with overreliance on a limited number
of crops and livestock. Diversification ensures a stable food
supply by reducing vulnerability to crop failure or deadly herd
diseases that may affect harvests. Moreover, emphasizing the
cultivation of culturally significant and indigenous foods
contributes to resilience, as these crops and animals often have
unique nutritional profiles and can be better adapted to local
environmental conditions.
Diversification strategies often integrate sustainable approaches
to pest management. Adopting Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) methods, including biological control, crop rotation, and
resistant crop varieties, minimizes reliance on chemical
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pesticides. This not only reduces the environmental impact of

agricultural practices but also avoids negative effects on non-
target organisms, promoting ecological balance. Agroecological
practices associated with food diversification, such as
companion planting and polyculture, naturally reduce pest
pressures, aligning to minimize synthetic pesticide use.
Food diversification enhances the resilience of agricultural
systems to climate variability and change. Different crops exhibit
varying tolerances to environmental conditions, contributing to a
more robust system capable of withstanding extreme weather
events, droughts, or floods. This resilience is essential for
maintaining consistent food production despite unpredictable
climatic challenges. Additionally, diversified food sources
contribute to nutritional security by offering a wider array of
essential nutrients. A more balanced and varied diet from diverse
crops addresses malnutrition and related health issues, thus
contributing to overall food security.
3. Precision farming, developed in the early 1990s, represents an
innovative approach to agricultural practices with the primary
objectives of reducing pesticide usage, minimizing labour costs,
and integrating mathematical principles into farming
methodologies. This methodology relies on a diverse array of
sensors and analytical tools, such as GPS, various sensors, and
drones, to collect data on critical factors influencing crop
growth,including soil moisture, air humidity, and weather
91
patterns. This information empowers farmers to make informed

decisions concerning crop cultivation.
Despite its gradual inception, precision agriculture has recently
made significant strides, particularly in tandem with the
advancements in satellite technology. State-of-the-art satellites
play a pivotal role in keeping farmers informed about weather
patterns through cloud analysis and monitoring storm activity in
proximity to their agricultural areas. Complementing these
satellites are highly accurate soil sensors, recording essential
parameters like moisture levels, nutrient content, and potential
contamination. The integration of GPS guidance systems in
tractors, coupled with high-quality aerial drones, further
enhances crop monitoring, ensuring prompt detection of any
issues. The current state of precision agriculture is promising,
with forecasts predicting further innovation and development in
the field.
The trajectory towards developing precision agriculture is
discernible, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into
the existing technology promises enhanced precision. As AI
becomes increasingly accessible, it opens new avenues for cost-
effective agricultural practices. Governments must invest in
improving communication and connectivity in rural areas to
facilitate the swift implementation of precision agriculture. This
entails enhancing education, job training, technological
awareness, and accessibility, as proficiency in working with
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technology becomes imperative for rapid development.

The paramount advantage of precision farming lies in its
capacity to maximize efficiency by providing specific details on
the precise inputs required for various crops, fields, or climates.
This precision minimizes waste, thereby reducing costs and
subsequently lowering the price of produce. Additionally,
precision farming contributes to environmental sustainability by
preventing the overuse of chemicals and minimizing
environmental damage. The potential for further development is
another significant advantage, given the relative novelty of this
methodology, dating back only a few decades, and the
anticipated advancements in the upcoming AI age.
However, the transition from traditional manual farming to
precision farming necessitates a considerable knowledge leap
for farmers, presenting a current challenge for widespread
adoption. Despite this setback, the efficiency and effectiveness
that precision farming brings to agriculture make it a technology
worthy of investment.
4. Reducing food waste

A staggering one-third of our annual food production is wasted,
exacerbating the formidable challenge of providing sustenance
for an overpopulated Earth, as reported by the World Food
Programme (WFP). This excessive waste not only compounds the
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predicament of overpopulation but also imposes detrimental

consequences on the environment. Urgent and comprehensive
actions are imperative, necessitating the attention of
governments globally to address this critical issue and ensure
food security for the burgeoning population. It is crucial to note
that interventions should extend across the entire food supply
chain rather than targeting specific points.
As previously articulated, precision farming emerges as a
paramount solution to curbing waste in agriculture. Leveraging
various technologies, precision farming optimizes inputs to yield
maximum output, demonstrating remarkable efficacy in
preventing overproduction and the excessive use of chemicals
during cultivation. Adopting innovative measures to enhance crop
health and resilience further enables farmers to minimize losses,
ensuring a greater proportion of their produce reaches
consumers.
The subsequent imperative in fortifying food security lies in the
enhancement of warehousing technology. Inadequate storage
conditions and challenges encountered during transportation can
swiftly render fresh ingredients inedible. By implementing
intelligent packaging and refining quality control in food
warehouses, companies can substantially reduce waste
occurring in the packaging and transportation processes. The
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widespread implementation of technologies such as barcodes

and QR codes is paramount to facilitate efficient management in
warehouses and throughout various stages of transportation,
ensuring that food reaches consumers before expiration.
Undoubtedly, consumers stand as the most pivotal stakeholders
in the endeavor to reduce food waste. Governments play a
pivotal role in disseminating awareness regarding the adverse
consequences of food wastage. Organizing environmental
campaigns that engage citizens in activities such as food
composting can significantly contribute to this awareness.
Through these initiatives, consumers can be educated on eco-
friendly practices and proper methods for storing and preserving
food. Governments, through collaborative efforts with
communities, hold the potential to achieve significant progress in
effectively reducing food waste.
The reduction of food waste is a pressing matter that demands
a holistic approach, addressing various facets of the food supply
chain. Concerted efforts across all levels are indispensable to
make substantial progress in mitigating this global challenge.
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XII
FEATURED COUNTRIES
96
1. The Republic of India

The Republic of India, a significant agricultural economy, is
renowned for its diverse produce and substantial exports,
including rice, wheat, pulses, fruits, and vegetables. However,
ensuring food security for all citizens remains a challenge due to
historical factors like unequal distribution, inefficient supply
chains, and variable climatic conditions, notably exemplified by
the Bengal famine during British occupation. To address
domestic food security concerns, India implemented the National
Food Security Act in 2013, providing subsidized food grains to 2/3
of the population (The Indian Parliament, 2013). Simultaneously, it
actively contributes to global efforts through the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO), sharing agricultural expertise and
participating in knowledge exchange programs.
One critical challenge that stands out from the rest is the use of
herbicides and pesticides, prompting India to promote integrated
pest management (IPM) practices, emphasizing a holistic
approach and raising awareness among farmers. Food source
security is tackled through improved storage facilities,
transportation networks, and support schemes for smallholder
farmers to enhance productivity. The issue of food diversity is
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addressed by promoting the cultivation of traditional and

neglected crops through initiatives like the National Mission for
Sustainable Agriculture. Although India is the 4th global economy,
it ranks 13th in chemical usage, indicating the need for
technological advancement (Tractor Junction, 2023). The
government is actively focusing on technology adoption in
agriculture through initiatives like the Digital India program,
promoting precision farming techniques using data analytics and
satellite technology.
2. Japan
If any country in the world is renowned for engineering,
innovation, and top-tier cuisine, it would undoubtedly be Japan.
Interestingly enough, Japanese agricultural products have
established such an impressive reputation that companies no
longer need to advertise quality; it is simply expected. What is
even more remarkable is their adept use of technology to address
nutritional challenges. This is what truly sets Japan apart.
Similar to other Western peers, Japan has played a pivotal role in
addressing global food security challenges through its substantial
contributions to the FAO. For instance, between 2018 and 2020,
Japan provided approximately $220 million to FAO's core
voluntary contributions, supporting various initiatives aimed at
addressing food security challenges globally (Utkina, 2023).
Despite its inherently archipelagic geographical landscape,
Japanese agriculture strives for high-quality output and
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technological advances to produce food in all weather conditions.

In the post-World War II US occupation era, food security in
Japan was a dire problem. However, Japan made significant
investments in land distribution, technological advances, and
streamlining ingredient procurement. Over time, these efforts
proved fruitful, and Japan now ranks 8th in global agricultural
output, showcasing the success of its initiatives. Remarkably,
Japan only stands 14th in the use of pesticides and herbicides in
its production processes, indicating a commitment to sustainable
agricultural practices (Tractor Junction, 2023). Nevertheless,
Japan faces the challenge of overreliance on rice as its main
staple, posing a risk, especially in potential saltwater flooding. To
enhance food security and agricultural biodiversity, Japan should
consider diversifying staple crops and promoting resilient
alternatives. While Japan is committed to all-weather food
production, continued investments in precision agriculture,
climate-resilient technologies, and sustainable practices can
further strengthen agricultural resilience, contributing to long-
term food security and environmental sustainability.
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3. The French Republic

France, a global juggernaut in the agricultural arena, not only
graces the world with its sumptuous wines and savory meats but
also stands as a pioneer in addressing the complex challenges
that intertwine with the tapestry
of its rich farmlands. France, a major global agricultural economy,
specializes in alcoholic beverages and meat products. Well
known for their love of food, it is not surprising that France
employs an impressive 7% of its population in the agricultural
sector, surpassing Germany's 0.7% and China's 7.3% (the largest
agriculture output economy in the world). It consistently
contributes an average of USD 29 million annually to the FAO,
ranking among its top financial supporters. While excelling in
herbicides/pesticide usage (#7 globally) and agricultural output
(ranking sixth), there still exists a historical reliance on flour,
raising concerns.
To address herbicides/pesticides, France advocates for
sustainable practices with stringent regulations. Future actions
could focus on promoting organic farming and researching
alternative pest control methods. In ensuring food source
security, France, having experienced post-WWII famine as like
many of its counterparts, employs robust systems like food
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stamps and rationing accordingly. Enhancing food security may

involve diversifying food sources, promoting sustainable farming,
and investing in technology. France's high-quality agricultural
output, especially in wine, could benefit from efforts to
encourage cultivation diversity. Promoting regional and
traditional crop varieties contributes to a more resilient
agricultural landscape. France's technological advancements can
further progress by investing in precision farming, data analytics,
and sustainable practices, aligning with its commitment to the
FAO.
4. The Republic of Türkiye

Turkey boasts a robust agricultural sector, cultivating a variety
of crops such as grains (wheat and barley), fruits (cherries,
apricots, and grapes), vegetables, and livestock products. Despite
achieving self-sufficiency in many agricultural areas and
maintaining a diverse landscape, Turkey grapples with food
security challenges stemming from uneven resource distribution,
infrastructure limitations, and socioeconomic disparities. While
avoiding significant famine post-WWI, Turkey faces issues related
to employment distribution, with over 19% of the population
employed in agriculture in 2018, indicating a heavy reliance on the
sector that poses challenges during output fluctuations (World
Bank, 2023).
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To address these challenges, Turkey has implemented policies

supporting smallholder farmers, investing in rural development,
and enhancing agricultural productivity. This strategic approach
is a focal point that Turkey aims to share with FAO, emphasizing
collaboration and knowledge exchange. Moreover, Turkey's
limited use of herbicides and pesticides, ranking 12th globally in
volume use, while maintaining a respectable 10th place in
agricultural output as a percentage of GDP, reflects a balanced
approach to agricultural practices (Tractor Junction, 2023).
Looking ahead, Turkey envisions a course of action that involves
continued collaboration with international organizations like FAO.
Participation in initiatives focused on sustainable agriculture,
knowledge exchange, and capacity-building underscores Turkey's
commitment to addressing global food security concerns. By
leveraging its expertise in various agricultural domains, Turkey
positions itself as a valuable contributor to FAO's mission, striving
to alleviate hunger and promote sustainable agricultural
practices worldwide. This collaborative spirit aligns with Turkey's
vision for a future where shared knowledge and efforts
contribute to a more secure and diverse global food landscape.
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5. People’s Republic of
Bangladesh
When it comes to creating jobs and contributing to the GDP of
the country, Bangladesh's agriculture industry dominates. It has
the largest employment rate in Bangladesh, employing 42.7% of
the labor force and contributing 14.2% of the country's GDP in
2017. Additionally, Bangladesh is also one of the world’s major
producers in terms of rice, with 44 million tons of grain being
farmed in the fiscal year 2021-2022 (LightCastle Partners, 2021).
However, in recent years, several constraints have hindered this
crucial sector from growing to its full potential. One of these is
land limitations; in 2018, Bangladesh had 1,239.7 people per square
kilometer, making it one of the world's most densely populated
countries. This man-to-land ratio, along with other effects of
climate change, including the soil's increasing salinity, decreased
fertility, earthquakes, and cyclones, made it difficult for
agriculture to thrive.
International collaboration is one way that the Bangladesh
government has been resolving these issues, showing its
determination to strive towards a world with no more hunger. In
2016, Bangladesh experienced severe poverty and increased
susceptibility to natural catastrophes, which prompted the
establishment of the Integrated Agricultural Productivity Project
(IAPP). The $50 million initiative supported local communities to
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increase the production of their crops, livestock, and fisheries

while also generating livelihoods and offering technical
assistance to small farmers. With a 15% rise in agricultural
producers and a 37% increase in fishers, the program benefited
250,000 farmers and enhanced family food consumption.
6. The Islamic Republic of

Afghanistan
was Listed by the UN as being one of the Least Developed
Countries in 1971, Afghanistan has been receiving help
internationally to eradicate poverty and hunger since the 1950s.
However, 30 years of internal conflict deprived the country of
regional peace and economic growth, and as a result, an
estimated 50% of Afghans were living in extreme poverty as of
2019, the majority of which resided in rural areas. In the hope of
deriving some income with the lack of novel technology in other
industries, the agricultural sector remains the backbone of the
nation’s economy, contributing over 23% of the GDP, and
providing livelihoods for 40% of the population. The industry is
also a major source of foreign exchange earnings, with
agricultural goods making up approximately 60% of all exports
(World Bank, 2018).
To alleviate the problems concerning agricultural productivity,
the Afghanistan Reconstruction Trust Fund (ARTF) and the World
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Bank have approved three $793 million projects to provide

essential food, livelihood, and health services to Afghanistan's
people (World Bank, 2022). These projects will be implemented
off-budget out of the Taliban’s administration control, focusing on
women and girls, and will be released in two tranches, allowing
donors to review progress and ensure funds are used effectively.
7. Federal Republic of Nigeria

The agricultural sector plays a pivotal role in the Nigerian
economy, as from January to March of 2021, it accounted
for 22.35 percent of the GDP. More than 70% of Nigerians work in
agriculture, primarily for subsistence. Nigeria's agricultural
industry has several obstacles that affect its output,
notwithstanding its economic importance, including degrading
land, inadequate irrigated farming, inadequate land tenure
systems, and climate change (FAO, 2021).
Due to these difficulties, agricultural output has been hindered,
which has reduced the sector's GDP contribution. Additionally, as
the population has grown, food imports have increased, leading
to a decline in levels of food sufficiency. For example, Nigeria's
total agricultural imports between 2016 and 2019 were N3.35
trillion, four times more than the country's agricultural exports of
N803 billion over the same period (FAO, 2021).
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The Agriculture Promotion Policy (APP), Nigeria-Africa Trade and

Investment Promotion Program, Presidential Economic
Diversification Initiative, Economic and Export Promotion
Incentives, and the Zero Reject Initiative are just a few of the
initiatives and programs the government has put in place to
address the situation. Other initiatives include the Nigeria Erosion
and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), the Action
Against Desertification (AAD) Program, and Reducing Emission
from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+). These
programs demonstrated the Nigerian government’s commitment
to alleviating hunger and improving the current problems
regarding agriculture.
8. Republic of South Sudan

As up to 95% of South Sudanese people are dependent on
farming, herding, or fishing, according to the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations, it is undeniable that this
sector is the nation’s primary source of income (UNDP, 2021). Any
interruption to this industry has repercussions and might be
detrimental to South Sudan's economy as a whole. Food
insecurity has gotten worse due to sharp rises in food costs
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brought on by skyrocketing inflation, hampered commerce and

markets, and decreased food supply as a result of natural
catastrophes or conflict.
Since, aside from internal conflicts, the natural environment
poses the greatest barriers to South Sudan’s agricultural output,
the nation, in 2021, established its National Adaptation Plan (NAP),
demonstrating its commitment to mitigate hunger and that the
FAO’s mission aligns with its long term vision. The first South
Sudan NAP will direct policy and implementation from the
national level down to the regional level, including villages and
families during the next five years. Three priority pillars make up
the NAP are: 1. Creating communities that are climate resilient; 2.
Developing an economy and development path that is climate
resilient; and 3. Creating environments and ecosystems that are
climate resilient.
9. The United Kingdom of

Great Britain and Northern Ireland
The United Kingdom has contributed no little effort to
addressing world hunger . In 2021, the UK exported a total of
£20.2bn worth of food (cheese, salmon,...), feed and drink, with
whisky being of the highest export value. With this in mind, it is
safe to say that UK is a large agriculture economy of the world.
From 2014-2018, the UK has supported FAO with $411mil , which
also shows a deepened bond between FAO and the UK. Other
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than financial support, Uk shows active support in many of FAO’s

programme like VGGT, IPPC, through sending funds, participating
actively in discussions.
Pesticide usage in the United Kingdom is anything but a big
problem on a comparative scale with the top agricultural nations,
as according to a report by the FAO of UN, the pesticide
consumption density of the United Kingdom only ranges from 1-
2.5kg/ha. Even with that being said, the UK still ranks number 27
in pesticides consumption annually, with a little over 19 thousand
tonnes used. Multiple attempts at calling for the reduction of
pesticides use has been made over the course of the last few
years, yet none of them so far managed to achieve results, while
the Conservatives Government is continuously accused of being
ignorant of the harms of pesticides.
On the other hand, food insecurity is quite a rising issue.
Due to the labor shortage and fund issues after the Brexit, as
well as the rise of input price because of the Ukrainian war, in
2022 there is an estimated 9.3mil adults who suffer from food
insecurity, that is roughly 18% of all households. However, the
food security situation should be getting better as the economy
is approaching a more stable state since post-covid.
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11. The Republic of Indonesia

Indonesia is a developing country in Southeast Asia, which is a
region for being fairly reliant on agriculture. The agricultural
sector contributes significantly to the country’s economy,
provides jobs for 30% of its large 273 million people population,
and contributes to the development of food security. Having said
that, the issue of food security in Indonesia is mainly a lack of
food access, malnutrition, and gender equality and the country is
prone to changes in the environment. Although the world ranking
of food security states that Indonesia is moderate, many in the
country still face low wages which leads to food security. The
COVID-19 pandemic also further exacerbated this. However, with
appropriate investments, research, and
development for the agricultural sector, development of local
infrastructure as well as efficient resource usage, it is possible
for Indonesia to significantly reduce food insecurity and hunger
by 2030. Indonesia’s government initiated the food security
development policy of 2024, which aims to increase domestic
production as well as research and development. For the seafood
industry, fishermen are going to have increased fishing capacity.
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For farmers, the government pushed for farmer cooperation

which can provide better bargaining opportunities for farmers
regarding market access and financing. Subsidies can also be
implemented to increase production output. Farmers are also
provided with farming insurance during times when income could
be disturbed.
Furthermore, the country also set targets for different aspects
of agriculture, aiming to increase output and improve food
security. These range from a target area of 304,000 hectares of
rice cultivation, 90,000 hectares of corn, and 184,650 hectares of
soybeans. There is also rehabilitation of the irrigation network
covers an area of 38,000 hectares through the center and 96,779
hectares throughout the regions. This and many other initiatives
show the country’s commitment to resolving hunger.
Indonesia is also heavily dependent on agrochemical usage.
Agrochemical usage for the agricultural sector in the country
reaches close to $ 7 million in market value with nearly 2000
brands registered with Indonesian authorities. Furthermore,
these numbers did not include the use of illegal agrochemicals.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture's Pesticide Commission,
around 10% to 12% of agrochemicals in use are illegal. However,
the Indonesian government removed the pesticide subsidies in
1986 and removed the fertilizer subsidies in 1998. Following
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pesticide subsidy removal in 1986, pesticide applications halved

while rice production grew by three million tons over four years.
12. The Republic of Chile

Chile has a strong tradition of producing food and other
agricultural products with the food industry being the second
largest in the country. Domestically, Chile mainly includes
agricultural products like berries, cherries, and other tropical
fruits which make up around 34% of exports. Chile’s efforts in
public health, social protection, agricultural production, and trade
have significantly reduced hunger inside its borders. This gave it
a global hunger index score of 5 which is extremely food secure.
Furthermore, Chile managed to reduce the risk of foodborne
diseases. Chile eradicated malnutrition, and under-nutrition,
regulated food nutritional quality and maintaining sanitary
production of foods. As global food demand increases, Chile’s
food system aims to diversify and modernize its food supply. A
combination of these factors can open up competitive
opportunities for the foreign and domestic market while ensuring
food security within the country. Pesticide and herbicide usage
is heavily associated with Chile as over 400 types are approved
for commercial use. The Chilean Agency for Food Quality and
Safety estimated over 63,000 tons of pesticides were used in
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2017. Chile's dependence on chemical farming also extends to

them having 102 types on the list of HHPs and Bans by the EU or
China.
13. Federative Republic of Brazil

It is estimated that over one-fourth of Brazilian inhabitants do not
have a sufficient supply of food and are always under threat of
food security. This is extremely high when compared to 16.1 % a
decade earlier. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the
situation of the labor market, and food inflation further
exacerbate the situation. However, many have credited the
country for the remarkable ways that it had done in combating
hunger.
Brazil strongly prioritizes fighting food insecurity. The country
believes that an efficient and reliable food system is capable of
providing nutritious food at affordable prices and adequate
quantities for households across the country. To achieve this,
firstly, Brazil insists on integrating sustainability into its food
system, addressing both issues of hunger and climate change. It
pushes for the research and development of new technologies as
well as the implementation of innovative agricultural policies
such as the ABC + plan. Secondly, Brazil promotes the formation
of different food systems specialized for each region in achieving
food security while maintaining set criteria. Measures for this
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might be to strengthen sanitary and income support programs

for regions in need. Thirdly, Brazil aims to ensure food security
throughout the country by providing healthy food in adequate
quantities. It could strengthen and enforce food security
programs, promote education as well and strengthen surveillance
for food and nutrition.
Brazil's agriculture is heavily dependent on the production of
crops using chemicals. About 14% of farming chemicals exported
by Europe go to Mercosur countries in South America, a trade
bloc consisting of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Many
of these chemicals are banned inside EU borders. The EU and
Mercosur countries formulated a trade agreement in 2019
regarding agrochemicals. If the trade agreement is ratified, tariffs
will be reduced by 90%, boosting Brazilian exports immensely.
Brazil's consumption of agrochemicals reached 685,745 tonnes in
2020, with a value of up to 28 billion euros. This helped to
increase the and area used for the farming of crops such as
soybeans, maize, and sugarcane. However, the use of
agrochemicals has posed alarming consequences on Brazilian
public health with nearly 6000 cases of food poisoning from
consuming foods with agrochemicals in them.
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14. The United States of

America
The USA is a powerhouse in the agricultural sector. With its
produce ranging from corn, soybeans, nuts, wheat, pork, and
poultry, this nation boasts an immense exporting power,
currently at the top of the world at $50 billion, accounting for up
to 10% of global exports in 2020. However, this number is tiny
compared to the US GDP, taking up only about 0.2%. Still, the
agricultural power that this nation holds is considerable.
As one of the economic leaders globally, the United States has
participated in many programs to combat food insecurity,
namely: The National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the Women,
Infants, and Children (WIC) program; and the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These programs are
mutually aimed at supporting households and breaking barriers
to accessing healthy food sources. Moreover, the US is also
willing to subsidize the agricultural industry by a considerable
amount. The federal government spends more than $30 billion
annually on subsidies for farm businesses and agriculture. Along
with that, Congress has been looking to reauthorizefarming
programs since 2023. These actions are aimed at helping farmers
financially due to fluctuating prices, as well as purchasing new
technology and land. Contrary to its high output from agriculture,
the United State’s agrochemical use is substantial, with up to 1.2
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billion metric tons used in 2016, ranking 2nd in the world as of

now. More so, the nation lacks movements toward restricting the
use of these agrochemicals, lagging behind other nations like
China and Brazil. (Elaborate on what it means). While the USA
definitely can provide more than enough food to sustain its
whole country, it certainly needs additional investment in
technology, sustainability, and restricting chemical usage to do
so.
15. The United Mexican States

Over the past few decades, Mexico has solidified its position as
a prominent global producer of fruits and vegetables, currently
sitting at a strong 15th place in agricultural produce. This is mainly
due to the surge in tomato, chili, berry, avocado, and mango
production as demands are constantly rising. Mexico also has a
great agricultural trade connection with the USA, fortifying its
position even more.
Unfortunately, many families suffer from food insecurity in this
nation. This is not due to the lack of food, but mainly because of
its costly price. Some families are only provided minuscule
amounts of finance, not even enough to sustain a healthy
lifestyle. To combat this, President Peña Nieto created the
National Crusade Against Hunger (CNCH) in 2013. Moreover, the
Hunger Project (THP) has been working for 30 years, working with
households by providing training and education.
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Luckily, Mexico takes initiatives towards banning and restricting

the use of herbicides. This includes an upcoming ban on
glyphosate imports, a herbicide and crop desiccant. The nation is
also looking forward to forbidding the use of 200 other types of
agrochemicals, an amount larger than a lot of other countries.
Even better, they are also planning to remove genetically
modified corn this year. With proactivity to work against
herbicide, Mexico is looking to eradicate unhealthy food
production in its nation, and hopefully provide sufficient food for
all its citizens.
16. The Commonwealth of

Australia
Although Australia is mostly arid, the nation is a major
agricultural producer and exporter, with over 325,300 employed
in agriculture, forestry, and fishing as of February 2015.
Agriculture and its closely related sectors earn $155 billion a year
for a 12% share of GDP. Farmers and graziers own 135,997 farms,
covering 61% of Australia's landmass.
Australia is a wealthy country. However, food security among
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples has not yet been
achieved. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in
remote areas of Australia experience food insecurity for several
reasons usually including low income and a lack of access to
affordable and healthy food. One notable action Australia has
taken to alleviate the situation is the “Close the Gap” campaign.
This campaign is focused on reducing inequities and inequalities
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between indigenous Australians and non-indigenous Australians.

On the contrary, Australia is a country that is heavily invested in
agrochemical usage. In 2022, there are 8000 registered
pesticides in the Australian market, some already banned in other
nations. This large use of agrochemicals is related to the
country's long-lasting weed resistance. It is also known that
Australians often overlook the consequences of overusing
pesticides, as well as their inability to adequately monitor their
use. Australian people are also responsible for this overuse, with
Queensland reportedly having spent $180 million on pesticides
annually.
17. The Socialist Republic of

Vietnam
Considering its small geographical size, Vietnam, with its
position at number 17 on the global agricultural output rankings, is
an impressive farming power source. Its most prominent exports
are coffee, ranking second in output and first in cultivation yield
with 2.4 tons/hectare, rice, reaching 7.1 million tons and a value of
up to $3.46 billion, and vegetables. Needless to say, Vietnamese
agriculture plays a large role in providing food sources globally.
Food security in Vietnam has been characterized by self-
sufficient food availability and improved food access but
unsatisfactory food. This means that most households have large
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access to food, but the quality of these products is not ensured.

In the 21st century, the Government has issued Resolution No.
63/NQ-CP on 23 December 2009 regulating national food
security. This resolution aims to terminate food shortages and
hunger by 2012 and increase food production by 2.5 times by
2020. However, there have not been major movements to
increase food quality. Like other Southeast Asian countries,
Vietnam is also heavily dependent on agriculture as a part of its
income. Even though the most harmful pesticides have been
banned here, the insufficient management of these chemicals
leads to higher agricultural pesticide use than in other countries.
Moreover, there has been an increasing number of registered
pesticides and agrochemicals during the past 10 years. While
Vietnam can provide enough food for itself, the question of “Are
these food products of a high standard” remains.
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18. The Italian Republic

In the face of history, Italy has always stood out as one of the
world's most popular and historic cuisines spanning thousands of
years from the 5th millennium BC. However, building such a
resounding food culture requires an agricultural economy of the
same magnitude. Major agricultural regions such as Tuscany and
Emilia-Romagna helps power the Italian agronomy. The Italian
Republic's agricultural output has a rather simple structure,
mainly consisting of rice, maize, tomato, and wheat. Possessing
the favorable geographic location that once belonged to the
mighty Roman Empire, Italy strives to maximize its output using
the infamous Po valleys.
Unlike many other European countries, Italy has undergone a
long period of division. From when, the country was filled with
small, independent kingdoms, through the Allies invasion in World
War II, the northern and southern regions have always been
vastly different. It needs to be taken into account that the Italian
agricultural area in 2010 was equal to 17,800,000 ha, of which
12,700,000 ha are used, and is concentrated in Southern Italy
(63%) (INEA, 2011). Up in Milan where the kingdom of Sardani-
Piedmont once stood, lies the heart of the Italian industrial might.
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Down south, once the kingdom of Naples is now the heart of the
Italian agriculture. The division of Italy is one of the many special
cases where agriculture is not as distributed which may cause
several environmental factors such as soil erosion or rising sea
level to risk the food source of the entire country.
Italian food products like wine or pasta have been renowned for
their quality as well as luxury for thousands of years, trading with
their EU counterparts notably France and Germany. Nevertheless,
deteriorating weather conditions have forced Italian farmers to
steadily increase chemical usage. As of 2020, Italia ranks 19th in
the world by agricultural output valued at over 37 billion USD of
output (IndexMundi, 2020). However, Italy struggles to control its
agrochemical usage. Ranked an alarming 11th in most
herbicides/pesticide usage per year, Italy lacks a balance
between a strong output and a quality one (FAO, 2020). Although
limited in size, actions have been taken by the Italian court
against the problem. One notable case details a complete ban on
synthetic pesticides in the city of Conegliano located within the
Prosecco wine-producing region. Although a lot more is required
of Italy to reach complete food safety like the reduction in
agrochemical usage, food source diversification away from
wheat as well as redistribution of key agriculture regions.
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19. The Republic of South Africa

The Republic of South Africa, located at the southern tip of the
African continent, stands as a crucial player in global agriculture
due to its advantageous geographical position. Benefiting from a
varied climate and fertile soils, South Africa is a key contributor
to global food production. According to the Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO), the country ranks 20th in agricultural output.
South Africa is a leading producer of maize, contributing over 11
million metric tons annually, and ranks among the top wheat and
citrus fruit producers as well (FAO, 2023). This places South Africa
as one of the primary agricultural powerhouses in Africa.
Despite its agricultural prowess, South Africa faces challenges in
ensuring food security. One advantage lies in its diverse
agricultural landscape and well-established agribusiness sector.
However, issues such as land inequality and water scarcity pose
significant threats. Statistics reveal that approximately 87% of
South Africa's land is privately owned, with concerns about
equitable land distribution (RDLR, 2017). Additionally, water
scarcity affects agricultural productivity, with only 9% of the
country's water resources being suitable for irrigation. To
address these challenges, South Africa can focus on sustainable
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agricultural practices, efficient water management, and

comprehensive land reform policies. In the past, South Africa has
implemented notable efforts to address food security challenges.
Initiatives like the Comprehensive Agriculture Support
Programme (CASP) and the Land Redistribution for Agricultural
Development (LRAD) program have positively impacted
smallholder farmers, contributing to increased agricultural
productivity. CASP has allocated millions of dollars to support
emerging farmers, while LRAD focuses on redistributing land for
agricultural development. Engaging with the FAO provides South
Africa with an opportunity to enhance its food security initiatives.
Statistics indicate that South Africa's agricultural sector
contributes significantly to its economy, accounting for about
2.5% of the country's GDP and employing over 5% of the
workforce (Mkhabela, Mazibuko, and Ntombela, 2022). Active
participation in the FAO allows South Africa to access resources
and knowledge that can further boost its agricultural practices.
However, the country should vigilantly ensure that FAO policies
align with its specific needs, emphasizing tailored approaches to
address regional variations in food security challenges. In the
committee, South Africa should advocate for collaborative efforts
and negotiate partnerships that genuinely benefit its food
security agenda, utilizing its position as a key player in the global
agricultural landscape.
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20. The Kingdom of Spain

The Kingdom of Spain, situated in southwestern Europe, holds a
strategically advantageous geographical location for agriculture.
Benefiting from a diverse climate and fertile lands, Spain is a
significant contributor to global food production. According to
the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Spain ranks among
the top agricultural producers in Europe. The country's
agricultural output by value is substantial, with statistics
indicating a contribution of approximately 2.5% to its Gross
Domestic Product (GDP) and employment of around 4.5% of the
workforce. Spain's membership in the European Union (EU)
further positions it within regional blocs, offering opportunities
for collaborative efforts to address global food security
challenges.
The current food security situation in Spain presents
advantages such as a well-established agricultural sector and
technological advancements in farming practices. However,
challenges include water scarcity and land degradation. Spain
faces the risk of desertification, impacting agricultural lands. To
mitigate these challenges, Spain can invest in sustainable water
management practices and implement soil conservation
strategies.
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In the past, Spain has undertaken efforts to address food

security challenges. Initiatives like the National Irrigation Plan and
the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) have positively impacted
agricultural productivity. The National Irrigation Plan aimed to
enhance water efficiency, while CAP provided financial support to
farmers. As a result, Spain experienced increased agricultural
output and improved rural livelihoods.In the FAO committee,
Spain can gain valuable insights, resources, and international
collaboration to strengthen its food security initiatives. With
agriculture playing a crucial role in its economy, Spain can benefit
from FAO's expertise and support. However, Spain should be
cautious in aligning FAO policies with its specific needs,
emphasizing tailored approaches to address regional nuances.
The country should actively engage in discussions, contribute
expertise, and foster partnerships for sustainable agricultural
practices on a global scale. Vigilance is crucial to ensuring that
FAO policies align with Spain's objectives, promoting a holistic
and effective approach to addressing food security challenges.
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21. The Federal Republic of.

Germany
As one of the most powerful economies in the entirety of the
European Union, it would be expected that Germany would not
have a significant food security issue. However, since the
economy of the continent is in decline and the pressure is put on
Germany to sustain it, inequality and food insecurity are still
present inside Germany.
According to Sabine Pfeiffer at the Friedrich-Alexander-
University of Erlangen-Nürnberg and Elke Oestreicher at the
University of Hohenheim, “The predominant responses to food
insecurity on the part of the German political and social welfare
systems can be characterized by delegation and denial of the
problem and by a tendency to stigmatize the poor”. Around 7% of
Germans are in some form of food insecurity. This is due to the
still present inequality and poverty inside the country. Poverty
increased from 12% to 16% from 1995 to 2014. Furthermore, 40%
of Germans aren’t enjoying the benefits of a growing European
economy. Inequality and poverty are both growing. Among them,
older people have been hardest hit. The number of retirees living
below the poverty line has increased from about 10% to 15%
since 2005. Furthermore, the recent Russia-Ukraine conflict and
the German reliance on bread, there have been reports of a major
bread and wheat-related product shortage in most retailers.
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To counteract this, Germany is committed to global food

security. The country was the second-largest donor country to
the World Food Program; in 2021. Germany provided around 1.2
billion euros to the WFP. In 2022 Germany invested around 4
billion euros in various ways to resolve food insecurity. Many
individuals inside Germany are also contributing their part in
resolving the food crisis. Food banks are a common example.
Small organizations that are responsible for the distribution of
food to those who need it. “The number of food banks in Germany
increased from 480 in 2005 to 916 in 2013, and 60,000 volunteers
currently serve food to 1.5 million so-called ‘regular customers’.”,
according to Sabine Pfeiffer and Elke Oestreicher, this illustrates
the effort that many individuals in Germany are contributing to
resolving a nationwide issue.
Germany is also committed to environmentally friendly
sustainable agriculture, aligning with the EU plan to reduce
agrochemical risk by 50% by 2030. However, it is reported that
the total toxicity of German pesticides has increased over the
last 25 years. This applies to fish, terrestrial plants, and soil
organisms, Germany only showed a decrease in terrestrial
vertebrates.
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22. Democratic Republic of Congo

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing one of
the world's worst food crises.The current Integrated Food
Security Phase Classification indicates that an estimated 23.4
million people are experiencing crisis and emergency levels of
food insecurity, with 5.4 million in the three eastern provinces of
Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu.
Around 6.4 million people are internally displaced, primarily in
Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu provinces. In these three
provinces, 5.3 million people have been displaced. From October
to mid-December 2023, growing conflict in North Kivu displaced
an additional 720,000 people.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has a lot of rich land
and water resources, and it has the potential to become self-
sufficient in food production and even increase its exports to
neighboring countries, even though its hunger rate is high. But a
number of fundamental issues, such the escalating violence in
the Democratic Republic of the Congo's east and a dearth of
funding for rural development, are keeping the nation from
achieving food self-sufficiency.
Critical infrastructural growth and agricultural output have been
hampered by the fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of
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the Congo. This is a crisis that is fueled by conflicting armed

groups, resource conflicts, and long-standing geopolitical
tensions.
23. Russian Federation

If we compare the food system of the Russian Federation with
countries with developing and developed economies, then its
impact on the world economy becomes obvious. The G20
countries account for 85% of the world national product, 75% of
world trade, and 2/3 of the world population. To say Russia and
Ukraine are critical to the world’s food supply chain is an
understatement. Together they export about 30% of the world’s
wheat, 60% of the world’s sunflower oil (the third-most-traded
seed oil behind palm and soy), and about 20% of the world’s corn.
Concerns about these countries’ ability to fulfill demand come at
a time when inflation, poor weather forecasts, and soaring energy
prices have already raised the stakes for agriculture markets.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
(FAO) states that Russia's agricultural market has enormous
potential, with 220 million hectares (544 million acres) and the
capacity to feed two billion people. Three-quarters of Russia's
agricultural output comes from four federal districts: the Volga,
the Urals, the North Caucasus, and the Central.
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Russia earned $91 billion from agriculture in 2019, a 4% increase.

Compared to 2018, crop production rose by 6.1% and livestock
production by 1.6%. Despite the COVID-19 outbreak, Russia's
Ministry of Agriculture predicts that agricultural production will
expand by 2-3% in 2020 and will continue on a healthy trajectory.
In 2019, Russia harvested 120.6 million tons of grain, a 6.5%
increase from 2018. Russia was the world's leading producer of
barley in 2019, the world's second-biggest producer of sunflower
seeds, the third-largest producer of potatoes and milk, the sixth-
largest producer of eggs and chicken meat. It was also the
world's greatest producer of wheat and its largest exporter.
24. People’s Republic of China

China has maintained relatively constant domestic food costs
and supplies despite its large population. In contrast to the global
growth rate of 25.2%, the domestic food price increased by a
mild 0.4% year over year in the first half of 2022. In comparison
to the international food security benchmark of 400 kilograms
per capita, the nation's domestic grain production in 2021
remained comparatively high at 483 kilograms per capita.
China's rice, wheat, and corn reserves have grown steadily in
recent decades. According to the Economist, which cited the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, by mid-2022, China was expected to
hold 69 percent of the world's corn reserves, 60 percent of its
130
rice, 51 percent of its wheat, and 37 percent of its soybeans.

China has taken a number of steps to ensure the security of
food imports. To support international food trade and bolster its
position in the world market, the government has invested more
in infrastructure and agriculture. Additionally, the government
has been collaborating with foreign groups to improve
agricultural productivity abroad, particularly in South Asia and
Africa. China committed to advancing Food Production
Enhancement Action as part of the Global Development
Initiative's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which
promotes international collaboration on food-related issues.
25. Ukraine
Historically, Ukraine was an agricultural country. Approximately
4,13,000 km2 of Ukraine's nearly 6,04,000 total area are used for
agriculture, according to FAO estimates. Presently, Ukraine ranks
among the top five global grain exporters, contributing about 45
million tons of grain to the global market each year. Additionally,
it is the biggest producer and exporter of vegetable oil worldwide,
rapeseed (Brassica napus) and sunflower. Principally, Ukraine
exported 32 million tons of grain in 2019 for $5.2 billion; the EU
accounted for 47%, China for 13%, Egypt for 12%, and so on. In
terms of exports, sunflower oil comes in second place with $3.8
131
billion. Wheat was the third-largest product exported by Ukraine,

worth $3.65 billion, with the majority of it going to Turkey,
Bangladesh, and Egypt. When it comes to Ukrainian exports,
sunflower seed cake comes in at number ten ($0.975 billion),
soybeans come in at number nine ($1.16 billion), and rapeseed
comes in at number eight ($1.26 billion). The export of food and
agricultural products climbed by 22% in 2021 compared to 2020,
reaching around $31.3 billion, or 39.8% of all exports from
Ukraine, according to the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of
Ukraine.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seriously
hampered commodity transportation. Black Sea ports,
which were not in use prior to the signing of the "Initiative on the
Safe Transportation of Grain and Foodstuffs from Ukrainian
ports" in Istanbul, Turkey, on July 22, 2022, handled almost all of
Ukraine's grain exports. It was anticipated that during the season
(summer 2022), Ukraine will export up to 20 million tonnes of
wheat, or almost 10% of the world's total wheat exports.
Nonetheless, the situation is still dire in 2023. In the first ten days
following the collapse of the Grain Deal, 180,000 tonnes of grain
were lost, 26 port infrastructure facilities were damaged, and five
civilian vessels were injured by shelling directed towards
Ukrainian territory, according to information from the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
The conflict will also affect Ukraine's agricultural output in the
132
upcoming growing seasons. Corn, barley, and sunflowers are

planted in the spring between April and May, and winter wheat is
planted between September and mid-November. The loss of
farming equipment, manpower shortages, producers' safety
concerns, and shortages of inputs (fuel and fertilizers) would all
negatively affect Ukraine's agricultural (and particularly wheat)
output. The predicted drop in Ukraine's agricultural output for the
next season ranges from 25 to 50 percent.
It was projected that one-third of Ukrainians experienced
food insecurity in May 2022. Furthermore, a significant drop in
the quantity of ships transporting agricultural products coincided
with the start of the crisis, thereby exerting a significant influence
on food prices. In addition, the war's aftereffects included Ukraine
closing its docks and stopping the crushing of oilseeds. For this
reason, rising food prices coincide with a lack of food exports
from Ukraine.
133
XIII
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER
134
1. If herbicides were banned then the agricultural output would

decrease, how do you plan to ensure the whole population is
going to be fed
2. The conflict in Ukraine exposes a huge flaw in the world's
agricultural flow which is the dependency on individual food
sources, does your country depend on any other country and
is it sustainable in the long run?
3. If you were in a position where your country is the main food
distributor for your region, how would you ensure that your
food sources are reliable?
4. The Irish potato famine demonstrated the consequence of
being way too dependent on one food source. To avoid the
same situation, is your country's food source diverse, if not,
then how would you diversify it?
5. The more food you distribute, the more you are likely to
waste. If you were a big food distributor for your region, how
can you effectively reduce food waste?
6. As a farmer, how would you try to minimize your effect on the
environment?
7. Food insecurity is the elephant in the room of the world's
agriculture collectively, as a country that is food insecure,
demonstrate your path to resolving food insecurity
135
8.Technology in farming is crucial, but it's still unpopular

in rural areas, as the government, how do you plan to get these
areas to adopt more innovative farming?
9.Our environment has dictated our food source for
centuries, should this still be the case?
10.Food is one of the driving forces of the economy, does
ensuring food security mean food free of charge?
136
XIV
BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Food and Agriculture

Dear Distinguished Delegates,

My name is Chi Nam, I am currently a sophomore at the

I strongly encourage every delegate to step outside of your

Name: Nguyen Duc Minh

A warm welcome to the distinguished delegates and esteemed

My name is Nguyen Duc Minh, a 10th grader currently studying at

The fear of public speeches has always made me shy of

At this year’s HUYMUN FAO conference, delegates will be

Name: Nguyen Nam Khanh

Welcome distinguished Delegates, esteemed Observers, and staff

May I express my warmest welcome to you all? I am Nguyen Nam

My journey with MUN was not a mundane case. I started with

During my first conference, the insecurity of public speaking

See you on conference day.

Nguyen Nam Khanh

Greetings Distinguished Delegates,

My name is Nguyen Ngoc Khanh Chi, currently in Year 11 at

recognizing that I could express my country's stance and find my

Name: Nguyen Le Dung

I am Lê Dũng, a ninth grader from Vinschool the Harmony, and it

This journey with HUYMUN has been nothing short of exhilarating,

the knowledge and guidance it has to offer. Collaborating with

Your content developer,

B. Strategic Concepts and Principles

In the complex tapestry of global food production, certain

Currently, the 4 leading superpowers in producing food,

damaged health, entangling citizens with even more burdens.

To maintain the high yield of crops yearly, farming companies,

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification

Can be directly translated to “off-site

A medical condition that is defined by a

Also known as linear growth failure, it is

The Codex Alimentarius is an international

Chemicals used to manipulate or control

Chemical compounds used to kill pests,

"When all people, at all times, have physical and

The amount of food produced per person in a

A noticeable and significant increase in the

Gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane

The target date set by the UN for global efforts

A United Nations agency providing food

A severe and immediate lack of access to

Famine Early Warning A network providing early warnings and

A climate phenomenon characterized by the

European Union (EU) A report forecasting trends and challenges in

Financial incentives provided by governments

The coexistence of undernourishment,

Economic growth benefits the poor by

Balancing conflicting interests and finding

Involves diverse stakeholders, including

A system of international trade agreements

Involves diverse stakeholders, including

Resources, such as water and biodiversity,

Black Sea Grain A trade initiative involving the export of

The process where nutrient-rich substances,

An international organization focusing on

Conservation of genetic material outside its