Speakers:

• Lynnette Neufeld, FAO’s Nutrition, Director and former AT4 Science Lead (moderator)


• Willem Olthof, Deputy Head of Unit Sustainable Agri-Food Systems and Fisheries Directorate-General for International Partnerships (INTPA) European Commission discussed the role of governments in creating the right policy environment to encourage decent work and living incomes and wages. Focus on EU programmes and initiatives.


• Reema Nanavaty, Executive Director, Self Employed Women’s Organisation discussed SEWA’s role in engaging with farmers, global food companies and the UN system in defence of workers’ rights in the battle for a sustainable food system. With a particular focus on women.


• Piero Conforti, Deputy Director, FAO’s Statistics Division and Livelihoods Working Group of the Food Systems Countdown Initiative discussed why adequate data matters to develop adequate policies and responses for producers and workers. Data is key to design and target policies, and to understand their impact. Some data is available – but major investments are needed, in terms of quantity and quality.
• Ajijti Jihane, Head of Stakeholder Engagement OCP Africa discussed how private sector can serve as the frontrunner by providing decent livelihood to smallholder famers.


• Mr. Simon Winter, Executive Director, Syngenta Foundation discussed the role for the private sector and opportunities presented in linking the climate and livelihoods agenda.


• Brian Chipili, Agribusiness Hub Lead, IFAD discussed IFAD’s focus on decent work for youth through its Agribusiness programme. Discussion focussed on developing skills for employment, increasing youth participation and providing access to green finance.


• Ms Alette van Leur, Director of the Sectoral Policies Department, ILOdiscussed the decent work deficits facing food system workers.