Глобальный форум по продовольственной безопасности и питанию (Форум FSN)

1. The V0 draft introduces a conceptual framework informed by key principles established in previous HLPE-FSN reports (HLPE, 2017; HLPE, 2020). Do you find the proposed framework effective to highlight and discuss the key issues concerning urban and peri-urban food systems? Is this a useful conceptual framework to provide practical guidance for policymakers? Can you offer suggestions for examples to illustrate and facilitate the operationalization of the conceptual framework to address issues relevant for FSN?

The proposed conceptual framework adeptly organizes the intricate issues within urban and peri-urban food systems. While it provides valuable insights into these key matters, its high-level guidance might pose challenges for policymakers in day-to-day practicality, especially during localization efforts. This limitation stems from the diverse and evolving contexts in which interventions are implemented.

2. The report adopts the broader definition of food security (proposed by the HLPE-FSN in 2020), which includes six dimensions of food security: availability, access, utilization, stability, agency and sustainability. Does the V0 draft cover sufficiently the implications of this broader definition in urban and peri-urban food systems?

While the six dimensions offer a robust foundation, these additional considerations of social and cultural implications as well as inclusivity. Inclusion of said factors could enhance the framework's applicability to the complexities of urban and peri-urban food systems. The V0 draft touches on participatory approaches and engagement with civil society. However, a more explicit focus on the social and cultural dimensions of food security, including community preferences and cultural practices related to food, could be beneficial. Moreover, additional social and cultural values such as faith hold a space in food security consideration. Similarly, the V0 draft provides examples of interventions but may benefit from emphasizing inclusivity, ensuring that all segments of the population, especially vulnerable groups, have equitable access to food and participate in decision-making processes.

3. Are the trends/variables/elements identified in the draft report the key ones to strengthen urban and peri-urban food systems? If not, which other elements should be considered? Are there any other issues concerning urban and peri-urban food systems that have not been sufficiently covered in the draft report? Are topics under- or over-represented in relation to their importance?

In chapter 3.4, "Urban food choices and food environments," consider adding health and chronic disease treatment and prevention. Aligning food security and nutrition with public health concerns can create multi-sectoral efforts within food systems. Similarly, in chapter 4.6, "Cross-cutting issues," consider including children, particularly the role of schools in combating food insecurity and enhancing nutrition education.

Recognizing the significance of indigenous knowledge is an important consideration in fortifying urban and peri-urban food systems to attain food security and nutrition amidst the challenges of urbanization and rural transformation. Indigenous knowledge encompasses sustainable agricultural practices that foster biodiversity and climate resilience, offering valuable insights. This indigenous wisdom contributes to the fortification of resilient food systems by endorsing the cultivation of diverse crops and plants, thus diminishing reliance on a limited set of staple foods. These practices are often intricately adapted to local ecosystems and weather conditions. The incorporation of traditional knowledge into urban and peri-urban agriculture has the potential to augment resilience in the face of climate change, assisting communities in adapting to unpredictable weather patterns.

As for additional publications, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs publishes an academic journal named the Natural Resource Forum, which synthesizes research from across the globe, contextualizing it within the framework of sustainable development goals. Tapping into the expertise presented in this peer-reviewed journal, especially articles addressing food security, may be immensely valuable.

5. Are there any redundant facts or statements that could be eliminated from the V0 draft?

While redundancy may not be evident in the draft, there is an opportunity to enhance the historical context for greater clarity. A more concise writing style, coupled with a review of the depth of historical information, could improve overall quality. Additionally, incorporating a summary of key points at the outset of each chapter would contribute to a more streamlined presentation.

6. Could you suggest case studies and success stories from countries that were able to strengthen urban and peri-urban food systems? In particular, the HLPE-FSN would seek contributions on: a) evidence-based examples of successful interventions in urban and peri-urban food systems with the principles behind what made the process work; b) efforts made to enhance agency in urban and peri- urban food systems; c) efforts made to enhance the right to food in urban and peri-urban settings; d) examples of circular economy and urban and peri-urban food system and climate change adaptation and mitigation, preferably beyond issues of production; and e) examples of national and local government collaboration on urban and peri-urban food systems.

​​​​​​​a) Evidence-Based Examples of Successful Interventions:

The NYC Greenmarkets promotes regional agriculture by providing a retail outlet for small family farms, ensuring the availability of fresh, locally-produced food in the city. Additionally, the. Farm to School Programs connect efforts between local farms and NYC schools to incorporate locally sourced and fresh produce into school meals.

​​​​​​​b) Efforts to Enhance Agency: