ALI Discusses the National and Economic Security Impacts of the Global Food Crisis

Speakers:

·       Congressman Jim McGovern, (MA-02)

·        Eric Mitchell, Executive Director, Alliance to End Hunger

·        Caitlin Welsh, Director, Food Security Program, CSIS

·        Dan Glickman, Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

·        Michelle Grogg, VP, Corporate Responsibility, and Executive Director, Cargill Foundation

ALI hosted a webinar on the national and economic impacts of the global food crisis. Experts outlined the ways that food insecurity impacts national security, including contributing to terrorism; causing political instability or fragility; and buying influence through food. The World Food Program will be a strong mitigating force as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts noted that the United States should continue efforts on sustainable production and pointed out that the increase in food prices around the world hurts food insecure populations first. On the question of food trade, experts agreed that countries tend to turn inward and erect protective barriers in times of crisis, but that keeping food markets open is in everyone’s best interest. Finally, experts highlighted that housing, sustainability, and living wages are key to the discussion about global hunger, so it is important to pursue a holistic approach.

Missed it? Watch the webinar here.