Hungry for Votes

In 2008, in the face of rising food prices, G20 leaders founded the Global Agriculture and Food Programme to support research leading to a second Green Revolution and elimination of world hunger. But as food prices rise, pledges to support the program go unfulfilled. Activists and scientists urge sustained attention, yet their pleas fall on deaf ears. Governments slash funds for food research, and agendas and politicians may mention prices – but there’s more talk than funds or action. Non-governmental organizations like the Gates Foundation have started funding their own food-related programs. But as a universal challenge with many complications, food pricing requires concerted attention and resources that only governments can provide. Food security can quickly transform into a serious national or cross-border security matter. For example, protests in the Middle East have been tied to rising prices and food shortages. Prevention is typically less costly than intervention. – YaleGlobal