This policy paper explores the role of governments in steering food systems governance, emphasizing the need for intersectoral coordination and regulatory leadership. The paper argues that siloed policymaking limits food system transformation, necessitating cross-sector collaboration among government agencies.
Key insights:
Over 3 billion people cannot afford a healthy diet, and food production accounts for one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Governments play a critical role in breaking down bureaucratic silos, ensuring policy coherence, funding, and enforcement mechanisms.
Case studies from Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Kenya highlight how elections and political transitions impact food systems reform efforts.
The paper advocates for high-level food system coordination offices within government structures, similar to how some countries prioritize nutrition policies at the prime ministerial or presidential level.
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