The 35th Session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Regional Conference for Europe brought together ministers, policymakers, and international stakeholders from across Europe and Central Asia to discuss the growing pressures facing agrifood systems. Held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the conference focused on strengthening resilience, sustainability, and inclusion amid rising climate risks, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical instability.
Participants emphasized that climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, and supply chain disruptions are increasingly threatening food security and agricultural production across the region. FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu stressed that these interconnected challenges require collective regional action and stronger international cooperation to build resilient agrifood systems capable of withstanding future shocks.
A major theme of the conference was the integration of climate action, biodiversity conservation, and land restoration into agricultural policies. Delegates discussed the importance of sustainable natural resource management and climate adaptation strategies to ensure long-term food security while protecting ecosystems. The discussions aligned with the FAO Strategic Framework 2022–2031, which promotes more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.
The conference also addressed the financial dimensions of agrifood transformation, highlighting the need for increased investment in sustainable agriculture and rural development. Officials noted that many countries continue to face elevated food prices, high agricultural input costs, and market volatility linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions and conflicts. Participants called for innovative financing approaches to support farmers, strengthen supply chains, and improve resilience in vulnerable communities.
Inclusion and equity were central to the discussions, with delegates emphasizing the importance of gender-responsive and community-based approaches to agricultural development. The conference highlighted the need to ensure that rural populations, women, and vulnerable groups are fully included in decision-making and benefit from investments in sustainable agrifood systems.
The regional gathering also explored the broader implications of ongoing conflicts and geopolitical tensions on global food systems. Delegates examined the continuing effects of the war in Ukraine and instability in other regions on food prices, fertilizer availability, and agricultural trade. FAO officials warned that peace and stability remain essential prerequisites for ensuring food security and protecting vulnerable populations from worsening hunger and economic hardship.
The conference concluded with a renewed call for stronger regional partnerships, coordinated policies, and long-term investment in resilient agrifood systems. Participants agreed that addressing climate change, economic pressures, and geopolitical instability requires integrated action that balances environmental sustainability with inclusive economic development across Europe and Central Asia.
