On October 22, 2024, during the 52nd Plenary Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS 52), held in Rome, Italy, the World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO) reaffirmed its commitment to farmers’ rights and global food security. Representing WFO, Ms Francesca Mancarella, Advocacy, Policy, and Partnerships Officer at the WFO International Secretariat, delivered a compelling statement at the “Global Thematic Event on Advancing the Uptake of the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on the Progressive Realization of the Right to Adequate Food“.
WFO acknowledged the broad consensus on the right to food but underlined the urgent need to bridge the gap between agreement and tangible action. “It’s encouraging to see such strong support for the right to food,” said Ms Mancarella, “but unfortunately, in many cases, this consensus doesn’t translate into meaningful change on the ground. Farmers continue to face challenges such as limited access to land, rising input costs, and restricted access to finance and markets, which undermine their rights and livelihoods.”
Photo credit: ©WFO
WFO underscored the critical need for enhanced monitoring, accountability, and enforcement mechanisms to protect the right to food. The organisation urged key entities such as FAO, WFP, IFAD, and donor countries to fulfil their financial commitments and ensure that the right to food becomes a cross-cutting priority in their development efforts. This is a collective responsibility that we all must uphold.
“As outlined in the WFO Policy on Sustainable Global Food Security and Nutrition, we will continue to advocate for the inclusion of farmers’ voices in all decision-making processes and policy development,” WFO reaffirmed.
WFO also highlighted the importance of recognising the diversity of agriculture globally and addressing the practical needs of farmers and marginalised communities. “Decision-makers must not only consider these needs in policy formulation but also ensure effective implementation that genuinely supports those on the ground,” WFO added.
WFO remains dedicated to advocating for farmers and ensuring their essential role in achieving global food security.