International Development Law Organization

Workshop: Investing responsibly in agriculture and food systems

The agricultural sector in low income countries has suffered from serious underinvestment for decades, with considerable consequences for long-term food security. The investment needed to eradicate hunger by 2030 has been estimated at US$1.5 billion annual additional investments per year, of which US$276 million is required for rural development and agriculture. While funding is needed, these investments should occur in a responsible way. The Principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and Food Systems (CFS-RAI), endorsed by the Committee on World Food Security in 2014, provide a framework for national regulations and international investment agreements to adhere to, including transparent and accessible legislation.

Recognizing this key role of a proper enabling environment, IDLO and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) organized a consultation workshop in May 2016 in Antigua, Guatemala to build the capacity for responsible investment needs in the wider region. The consultation explored how application of the CFS-RAI principles can stimulate a business environment that ensures food security and nutrition concerns are put at the forefront of public and private investments in agriculture. 

Status: 
Completed
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