The Global Food Policy Report (GFPR) 2023

The Global Food Policy Report (GFPR) 2023, recently released by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), sheds light on the challenges faced by the food security system in South Asia due to the convergence of three significant factors: the Covid-19 pandemic, the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and frequent natural disasters. This comprehensive analysis highlights the urgent need for transformative action to ensure resilient, inclusive, sustainable, and healthy food systems.

Understanding the Global Food Policy Report (GFPR)

The GFPR serves as a vital resource for assessing the major developments and challenges in food and nutrition security worldwide. It examines the impacts of diverse factors such as the Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, trade, conflict, and technological innovation on food systems and livelihoods. The report draws on data and evidence from reputable sources, including IFPRI, the Food Policy Research Institute (FPRI), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other esteemed partners.

Objectives: Resilient, Inclusive, Sustainable, and Healthy Food Systems

The primary objectives of the GFPR 2023 are to underscore the need for urgent action to transform food systems and to highlight the importance of resilience, inclusivity, sustainability, and health. The report emphasizes the significance of adopting a holistic approach that considers multiple dimensions of food security, including availability, access, utilization, and stability. It also stresses the importance of collaboration and coordination among diverse actors and sectors, such as governments, civil society, the private sector, research institutions, and international organizations.

Key Areas of Focus for Transformative Action

The GFPR 2023 identifies three key areas that require focused attention to enhance food system resilience and address crises effectively:

• Crisis Prediction and Preparation: It is crucial to develop robust mechanisms for predicting and preparing for crises. Governments should create a business environment that fosters flexibility, technical and financial innovation in agrifood value chains. Additionally, governments should provide essential infrastructure and targeted assistance to at-risk value chain actors and nodes.
• Building Resilience: Flexible, shock-responsive, and carefully targeted social protection systems play a vital role in building resilience before and during crises. Integrating social protection with gender and climate goals can promote gender equality and sustainability, enhancing overall resilience.
• Inclusive Crisis Response: Empowering women in crisis situations is of utmost importance as they often bear a disproportionate share of the negative impacts. Collecting high-quality, gender-disaggregated data, directing funding toward programs that improve gender equality, and ensuring women’s voices are included in decision-making processes can support the achievement of gender equality goals amidst crises.

Importance of Financing and Accountable Governance

To bolster resilience and improve crisis response, the GFPR 2023 highlights the overarching requirements of larger and more effective financing and accountable governance. Adequate financing is necessary to support transformative actions, while accountable governance ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and transparently.

About the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

Established in 1975, IFPRI is a research institution dedicated to providing evidence-based policy solutions to reduce poverty, hunger, and malnutrition sustainably in developing countries. As a research center of CGIAR, the world’s largest agricultural innovation network, IFPRI focuses on five strategic research areas: fostering climate-resilient and sustainable food supply, promoting healthy diets and nutrition for all, building inclusive and efficient markets and trade systems, transforming agricultural and rural economies, and strengthening institutions and governance.