This study is concerned with how changes to the world’s food and agriculture system can contribute to improvements in global food security. It takes stock of a range of existing OECD work, including that undertaken with other international organisations, in particular for the G20, and places that work in the context of wider analysis both by international organisations and in academia.

The OECD has studied many policy and market issues that have implications for food security. Yet most of the work on food security has been implicit, examining underlying determinants such as the functioning of global food markets and the role of agriculture in poverty reduction. This study synthesises that analysis with a view to providing a consistent narrative of the main priorities for ensuring long-term global food security.

Many organisations have also produced important synthetic work on this issue and there is a large element of consensus. This study recognises the main areas of consensus, while seeking to provide a distinct view on some of the strategic priorities and requirements for effective policies.

The policy recommendations seek to improve the coherence of OECD countries’ policies and contribute to multilateral initiatives, such as those pursued through the G20. More widely, the study seeks to contribute to the global debate on issues pertaining to global food security.