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.
In this Event Report, EURACTIV’s agrifood team takes a closer look at food security in this time of crisis and the response at the EU level.
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Keep calm and carry on trading: Von der Leyen urges solidarity to fix food crisis
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for global solidarity to cope with food insecurity caused by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, urging states to keep trade open while pledging EU support for the most vulnerable countries.
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Ukraine’s deputy agri minister: Winning the war, unblocking ports only way to restore grain exports
Despite an adequate and friendly global response, the only option to restore grain exports from Ukraine is to win the war as Russia can not be trusted in any plan aimed at unblocking seaports in the South of the country, Ukraine's deputy agriculture minister told EURACTIV in an exclusive interview.
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MEPs: more support for grain export at Polish-Ukrainian border needed
As issues with Ukraine's exports of grain persist, MEPs asked the Commission to consider ways to grant financial support and insurance guarantees for the leasing of logistical equipment and staff in a letter obtained by EURACTIV.