FOOD AND POWER INITIATIVE

The Food and Power Initiative (FPI) is an emerging global programme which aims to support countries and stakeholders to better understand, navigate and address the power dynamics of food systems transformation. 

Despite significant investments in new technologies and forward-thinking policies, the global food system has been slow to transform. The UNDP’s recent White Paper, Supporting Food Systems Transformation Towards Sustainability and Resilience, highlights six key dimensions that must be tackled to drive real change: poverty and inequality, health, gender equity, environmental impact, climate change, and energy. These insights are shaping our collaborative work as we strive for a more sustainable and resilient food system. 

However, the potential for progress in those areas depends on decision-making processes that are strongly influenced by political and economic factors. Power asymmetries —whether between nations, corporations, (small-scale) producers, or communities— play a crucial role in determining who has access to resources, who makes decisions, and ultimately, who benefits. Therefore, to truly transform food systems, navigating and addressing power is essential. 

UNDP Food and Agricultural Commodity Systems (FACS) developed a report “Working with Power in Multi-Stakeholder Processes”, reflecting the significance of power as a systemic force in food system transformation. Further analysis, summarised in this 5-page brief, outlined 9 primary power asymmetries in the food system, and affirmed the value of taking action. UNDP is now exploring the next steps for this multi-partner initiative.  

Timeline graphic illustrating project phases from August 2021 to June 2022 with icons and brief descriptions.

For more information on the Food and Power initiative, contact:

The early stages of this initiative have been made possible with thanks to the support of the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture.