Eastern European food systems in crisis. Multi-sectoral solutions for food security and health

The Eastern European region is on the frontline of war alongside Ukraine and we have seen this aggression echo in the stability of food systems dependent on heavy industrialisation, fossil fuels, and chemical fertiliser. This has exacerbated hunger and malnutrition worldwide, but the current model of production has long disadvantaged people locally and across the region, namely smallholder farmers. The issues faced by Eastern Europe call for a green transformation of the food system, one that prioritises livelihoods that depend on the land and addresses the health burden exacerbated by unstable food security.

In this panel discussion, experts, as well as diverse representatives of civil society will present the case for a multi-sectoral and holistic approach to food systems transformation in the context of Eastern Europe. Challenges that are to be discussed are the following:

• the impact of war on food supply and security in the region;
• climate sensitivity of food systems and public nutrition;
• knock-on effects of multiple systemic crises for farmers, the consumer and wider communities;
• a holistic agroecological approach to break down silos, foster community ownership and improve public wellbeing based on practical examples;
• a just food and agricultural transition for planetary health as an essential component for EU integration of Eastern Partnership countries.

Moderator: Viktoriya Ball, climate and health activist, youth climate initiative “Rozviy”, Youth Climate and Health Network

• Daryna Kulaga, COP Negotiator, Researcher at Kyiv School of Economics
• Natalia Mamonova, Food Systems Researcher, Ruralis – Institute for Rural and Regional Research
• Diana Popfalushi, Environmental Campaigner, Plato NGO, Representative of the Ukrainian Climate Network
• Ramona Duminicioiu, President, Eco Ruralis Association, Romania
• Ewa Karolewska, Project Manager, EIT Food, formerly Senior Expert at Ministry of Economic Development, Poland
• Edmond Fernandes, Director, Edward & Cynthia Institute of Public Health and Founder, CHD Group, India

Watch the recording of the event: