In a significant step toward achieving sustainable food systems transformation, the Foresight4Food Initiative and the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub are co-convening a two-day workshop at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome on January 30–31, 2025. The event, titled as ‘The Power of Foresight: Supporting the Implementation of Food Systems Transformation Pathways‘ will bring together global experts, national representatives, and key stakeholders to explore how foresight can drive transformative pathways in food systems.
This workshop, supported by the governments of the Netherlands and institutions like The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), aims to address critical gaps in data, knowledge, and collaborative strategies. As the world moves toward the next Food Systems Stock Taking Moment (UNFSS+4), the gathering is a timely initiative to harness foresight tools for navigating the complexities of food system transformations.
The overall purpose of the workshop is to advance the use of foresight to enhance knowledge and data mobilization, support the design and implementation of national food systems transformation pathways, and drive food systems transformation. Some of the key objectives of the workshop include:
- Highlighting the role of foresight in supporting national food systems pathways.
- Sharing insights on foresight applications, with case studies and expert panels.
- Fostering synergies among participants to drive collaborative action plans.
- Developing actionable strategies to address national and regional challenges.
The participatory two-day event will include plenary sessions, panel discussions, and interactive workshops with the agenda focusing on four pillars:
- Understanding Needs: Addressing gaps in foresight capabilities and services.
- Showcasing Offerings: Presenting practical foresight tools and successful case studies.
- Aligning Efforts: Identifying opportunities for synergy across initiatives.
- Action Planning: Developing concrete plans to support national transformation pathways.
Participation in this workshop is by invitation only, ensuring a focused and expert-driven dialogue. Attendees will include members of the Foresight4Food network, national food systems convenors, and representatives from UN agencies with a background in foresight, data mobilization, and multi-stakeholder facilitation.
This workshop is poised to advance the use of foresight as a critical tool for building resilient, sustainable, and equitable food systems globally. Stay tuned for outcomes that could shape the future of food systems transformation worldwide.