On November 15, 2023, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held a press conference in London to announce a new science initiative aimed at addressing global food security. The initiative, led by CGIAR, a global research partnership focused on food security, will focus on developing climate-resilient crops and connect UK scientists with research initiatives aimed at creating more disease-resistant crops.
Sunak emphasized the need to address the underlying causes of global food insecurity, citing events such as Russia’s war in Ukraine and natural disasters as major contributors to food production issues. The Global Food Security Summit, hosted by the UK government and attended by representatives from over 20 countries, will provide an opportunity for international partners to come together and discuss solutions to these challenges.
The British government is also publishing a new international development policy document, or White Paper, detailing plans to work with partner countries to combat extreme poverty and climate change instead of purely providing aid money. The priorities outlined in the policy document include mobilizing international finance and leveraging innovation. In addition, Britain will be offering humanitarian funding of up to 100 million pounds ($125 million) to countries most affected by food insecurity and climate-related disasters such as cyclones and droughts.
These initiatives reflect the UK’s commitment to addressing global food security through scientific research, international partnerships, and financial aid.
