Themes & Resources
In 2023, the then labelled Food Systems Section, now part of the joint Section Health and Food, established key messages on food systems. These state the general starting points for operational policy, and outline priorities which hold true for the whole of SDC.
Agroecology
As a holistic approach to farming and food systems, agroecology applies ecological principles, local knowledge and social equity to produce healthy food and strengthen resilience, while supporting livelihoods. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Climate Change
Food systems both shape and are shaped by the climate, directly influencing how we produce, distribute and consume our food. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Conflict, violence and insecurity
Conflicts and violence remain key drivers of food insecurity, while food shortages and competition over resources can also fuel further instability. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Food systems
To ensure food security, livelihoods and environmental sustainability, a systemic approach is necessary for the development of sustainable, resilient, healthy, just and inclusive food systems. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Gender
Reducing social and gender inequalities throughout food systems is vital in view of the key roles women play in production and nutrition. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Nutrition
Malnutrition in all its forms is the biggest global burden of disease. Read about SDC's approach, recommended key resources, projects and more!
Private sector engagement
To achieve lasting impact, all market actors must be involved in global efforts to make food systems more sustainable, resilient, inclusive to ensure healthy diets for all. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Research and Development
Agricultural knowledge and research in food systems drives innovation and evidence-based solutions that improve productivity, sustainability, and nutrition for healthier diets and resilient communities. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Rights-based approach
A rights-based approach to food systems ensures that everyone has the legal and social entitlement to adequate food, empowering communities and holding institutions accountable for nutrition and equity. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Youth
Investing in rural youth unlocks the potential to strengthen food systems, boost rural economies, and expand opportunities for sustainable agriculture. Read more, including some key resources and latest news.
Food and nutrition insecurity are on the rise; An estimated 8.2 % of the world population — about 673 million people — were undernourished in 2024, while over 295 million people across 53 countries faced acute hunger. Switzerland responds to the current food crisis in a two-pronged approach: with immediate assistance, while at the same time addressing the root causes of hunger and determinants of nutrition security to build long-term resilience of food systems.
SDC is committed to ensuring global food security, by guaranteeing that all people, at all time, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food which meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. Agency (the capacity of individuals and groups to exercise voice and make decisions) and sustainability (long-term viability of the ecological and social bases of food systems) also need to be recognised as key dimensions of food security in food policy frameworks.