On November 15, 2023, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced 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 connecting UK scientists with research initiatives aimed at improving crop yield and disease resistance.
The announcement was made during a press conference in London and was accompanied by the launch of the Global Food Security Summit being hosted by the UK government. The summit is expected to be attended by representatives from over 20 countries and aims to address underlying causes of global food insecurity, such as Russia’s war in Ukraine and natural disasters like droughts and cyclones.
In addition to the science initiative, the UK government will also publish a new international development policy document or White Paper detailing plans to combat extreme poverty and climate change through partnerships with other countries. This document will outline priorities such as mobilizing international finance, leveraging innovation, and providing humanitarian funding of up to £100 million ($125 million) to countries most affected by food insecurity and climate-related disasters.
Sunak emphasized the need for global cooperation in addressing food security challenges. “The world faces unprecedented challenges in terms of global food security,” he said. “It is our responsibility as leaders to come together to find sustainable solutions that benefit everyone.” The upcoming initiatives reflect the UK’s commitment to working with other countries to address these challenges through scientific research, international partnerships, and financial aid.