42nd Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS 42)
Making a Difference in Food Security and Nutrition

On Monday, CFS 42 opened with adoption of the meeting’s agenda and timetable and consideration of other organizational matters. Plenary then addressed: CFS and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) challenge; the 2015 edition of the report on the State of Food Insecurity in the World; and water for food security and nutrition, including the report and recommendations of the High Level Panel of Experts (HLPE) on Water for Food Security and Nutrition.

On CFS and the SDG challenge, Chair Gerda Verburg (the Netherlands) stressed that “every day lost in the fight against hunger and malnutrition costs 20,000 lives, and the dignity of many more”; and noted that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which explicitly recognizes CFS’ role, calls for a holistic and inclusive approach and shared responsibility.

David Nabarro, UN Special Representative for Food Security and Nutrition, on behalf of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, said that achieving food security, improving nutrition and building inclusive, resilient and sustainable food systems are central to the success of the 2030 Agenda; at the same time, achieving zero hunger, requires delivering on all SDGs.

Kanayo Nwanze, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), emphasized that meeting the SDGs will demand a profound change in food systems at all levels, and underscored the need for action.

Ertharin Cousin, Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), emphasized the importance of ending hunger for global peace and security, and underlined the need to address those furthest behind first.

FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva noted the importance of partnerships and social protection to ensure that the current generation becomes the first zero-hunger generation. 

Participants commended the 2015 edition of the report on the State of Food Insecurity in the World. They highlighted uneven progress among regions and countries, often linked to natural disasters, war or political instability, and the need for investment in agriculture and social protection nets, in addition to increases in productivity. They then discussed the HLPE report on Water for Food Security and Nutrition, and initiated consideration of the related draft decision box.

An evening event, “Youth for Food Security and Nutrition Idea Incubator,” served to empower youth to invest and engage in the food system via an innovative approach, with youth presenting their small business projects from around the world. Ten pre-selected youth "pitched" their business models to a panel of experts in youth food system entrepreneurship.