The Regional Forum on Sustainable Development side event “Women in Sustainable Food Systems and Climate Action”

Event time and location: Online, Tuesday, 12 March 2024  

• 12:00 Brussels time (GMT+1)
• 14:00 Istanbul time (GMT+3)
• 17:00 Astana, Bishkek time (GMT+5)

Event sponsors: UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia and FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia

The UN Women Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia and the FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia are convening a side event titled “Women in Sustainable Food Systems and Climate Action” at the UNECE Regional Forum for Sustainable Development. The context of multiple crises in the region, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and regional conflicts, the earthquake in Türkiye, alongside adverse weather events stemming from climate change, has led to higher food prices and increased vulnerability among disadvantaged groups, notably lower-income women and children. These challenges underscore the urgent necessity for an inclusive and sustainable transformation of food systems.

The side event will explore the critical role of women’s empowerment (SDG 5) in building sustainable food systems, a key element to realize the ambition of zero hunger (SDG 2) and propel climate action (SDG 13) forward. Perspectives of diverse rural women and policymakers from the Western Balkans, Caucasus and Central Asia will guide the interactive session, showcasing their experiences and identifying potentials for replicating good practices. The outcome of the discussion will inform the preparations of UN Women and FAO for COP29.

The event will be conducted in English with simultaneous translation into Russian.