Former International Development Minister Rory Stewart to give livestream evidence on FCDO work toward Zero Hunger globally
According to the United Nations, there is more than enough food in the world to feed every human. Despite this, global progress towards UN Sustainable Development Goal 2, achieving Zero Hunger, has stalled. There are now truly horrific reports of conflict-driven famine emerging in Gaza; and re-emerging again in Sudan; while Yemen has been classed as in a “food insecurity crisis” since at least 2016.
Earlier evidence to this inquiry from community leaders who had set up relief groups in the face of famines or long-term food security testified to the role of climate change and conflict in creating food insecurity. Witnesses emphasised the disruption to farming practices that have traditionally fed local populations by a range of factors: from climate-related droughts to political and economic instability.
They also underlined the necessity of locally appropriate solutions for sustainability, and the importance of personal dignity when developing food security solutions: such as using voucher schemes rather than food handouts.
Meeting details
In the final evidence session of this inquiry on the FCDO’s work to achieve Zero Hunger we will focus on the different ways, including in agriculture, of achieving long-term food security.
What is the FCDO’s current policy and programming to help achieve global food security and how it could be improved?
What challenges do farmers face and how is the FCDO working with smallholder farmers and women in particular to overcome these challenges?
How responsive is the scientific research body and the aid industry to community needs?