Story | 15 8月, 2012

Putting citizens at the heart of food system governance

By Michel Pimbert, IIED. Establishing inclusive governance of food systems — where farmers and other citizens play an active role in designing and implementing food and agricultural policies — is not just a matter of equity or social justice. Evidence shows that it can also lead to more sustainable livelihoods and environments. 

 

 
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Photo: IIED

And yet, across the world, food system governance is marked by exclusionary processes that favour the values and interests of more powerful corporations, investors, big farmers and large research institutes. How can we tip the balance and amplify the voice and influence of marginalised citizens in setting the food and agricultural policies that affect them?

Research points to six tried and tested ways that, when combined, can empower citizens in the governance of food systems.