Canadian perspectives on building a resilient future for all

8 October 2019, Ottawa, ON - FAO North America in partnership with the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the University of Ottawa’s International Development and Globalization Student Association co-organized a high-level technical discussion highlighting Canadian perspectives on the key findings of the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) 2019 report at the University of Ottawa. The event attracted a large audience consisting of senior representatives from the Government of Canada, students, civil society, academia and research institutions, philanthropic foundations, multilateral organizations, and the private sector.

Vimlendra Sharan, Director of FAO’s Liaison Office for North America delivered keynote remarks in which he presented the key findings of the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2019 report, which alarms that hunger is rising due to conflict, climate change and economic slowdowns. Overweight and obesity continue to increase worldwide, while 2 billion people don't have regular access to safe, nutritious food. The event also featured high-level remarks from Dominique Charron, Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at the IDRC Canada. 

A panel discussion featuring representatives from IDRC, CARE Canada, and the University of Ottawa, moderated by Santiago Alba Corral, Interim Director of Agriculture and Environment at IDRC followed. Tom Pesek, Senior Liaison Officer at FAO North America, delivered closing remarks in which he highlighted the central themes addressed by all speakers. These remarks covered many of the aspects explored in the report, including the role of economic and trade policy on food and nutrition security, the role of smallholder farmers in transforming food systems, the potential for research to promote change vis-a-vis land tenure for smallholders; and the critical importance of empowering women to build a resilient future for all.

The event also served as a forum for highlighting Canadian perspectives on the key themes addressed in the SOFI 2019, particularly the role of economic slowdowns and downturns in increased global hunger. Participants also emphasized the critical importance of promoting gender equality, and the empowerment of women and youth. Numerous speakers called upon governments, international organizations and civil society to help mitigate these negative impacts, while empowering and building resilience among those affected by climate change and natural disasters.