SDC syposium: "Large-scale investment in agriculture and land – Opportunity and risk for food security"

Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation | 15 October 2009

Symposium on the occasion of World Food Day 2009

Large-scale Investment in Agriculture and Land – Opportunity and Risk for Food Security, Bern, Switzerland, 15 October 2009

Over the past year, large-scale acquisitions of farmland in Africa, Latin America, Central Asia and Southeast Asia have made headlines across the world. A combination of higher and more volatile global commodity prices, demand for bio-fuels, population growth and urbanisation, as well as globalisation and overall economic development are likely indicators that such investments will constitute a growing trend around the world.

Investment in agricultural land poses risks and opportunities for developing countries and rural populations. Investments could help to develop infrastructure and modernise the agriculture sector, boosting production and creating new employment opportunities. However, in the absence of secure land tenure, sound agricultural policies and good governance, investments in the form of land acquisitions or long-term leases can undermine national food security and create conflicts with the basic human rights and development opportunities of indigenous and small-scale farming communities and pastoralists.

As a response to the international debate, there is a growing awareness in the international community of the need for coordinated action. At this event, international experts will give insights into key issues surrounding investments in agriculture. What do we know about investors and projects? What is actually in discussion regarding principles and standards for contracts between investors and host governments? What are the means to ensure transparency and informed consent of stakeholder groups? What is the role of international development actors, civil society and private investors?

In the afternoon workshop, there will be an opportunity for an indepth presentation by the Secretariat of the International Land Coalition and SDC’s global program on food security. There will also be an opportunity to discuss and present the activities of Swiss actors.