Youth Food Security Symposium

Food security is a critical issue that affects millions of people around the world, particularly in low-income and marginalized communities. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 811 million people suffered from chronic undernourishment in 2020, and the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity in many countries.

The principles of food security include access, availability, utilization, and stability. Access refers to the physical and economic ability to obtain sufficient and nutritious food, while availability refers to the presence of food in adequate quantities and diversity. Utilization encompasses the utilization of nutrients in food for growth, development, and health, and stability refers to the ability of food systems to withstand shocks and stresses, such as climate change and economic fluctuations.

The Youth Food Security Symposium seeks to address these principles of food security by bringing together young people and experts to discuss innovative solutions to food insecurity and promote more equitable and sustainable food systems. Studies have shown that youth-led initiatives are effective in addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture. For example, a study published in the journal Agriculture and Human Values found that youth-led agroecological initiatives in Brazil helped to improve food security and promote social inclusion.

By providing a platform for young people to share their experiences, ideas, and initiatives, the Youth Food Security Symposium aims to empower the next generation of leaders in the food system and catalyze meaningful action towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger. By promoting food security and sustainability, we can create a world where all people have access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food, and where food systems are equitable, sustainable, and resilient.