Food security in times of crisis

 Food security has been the phrase on everyone’s lips since the start of the Ukraine war, which has sent the agrifood sector reeling.

While at the EU level food security is not at risk, elsewhere concerns are mounting over potential food shortages. Meanwhile, the conflict has sent global food prices skyrocketing, which will hit the poorest populations the hardest.

To cope with this crisis, some, including the incoming Czech Presidency, have suggested green goals be paused in favour of increasing food production. Others warn that this is a mistake, pointing out that the environmental targets outlined in the EU’s flagship food policy, the Farm to Fork strategy, are necessary to build a truly sustainable food system in the long run.

For their part, the European Commission has asked member states to adjust their Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) national strategic plans in consideration of the evolving geopolitical context. (...)