Between food security and energy crisis: the outlook for a crisis-ridden 2023 

COMMENTARY by Kirstin Karotki / Oliver Drewes

 

The EU has published its work programme for the coming year 2023: the political outlook into a crisis-ridden year even before it begins. The Commission’s goal is nothing less than to defend the rule of law and democracy, tackle the energy crisis, and strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy in critical commodities while shaping a digital and environmental transformation.

 

Meanwhile, the world faces an unprecedented food crisis. The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible. Europe’s hot and very dry summer, high energy prices, and uncertain harvests due to Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine are threatening food production. Export restrictions and disrupted supply chains are another reason for uncertainty. The fatal effects are already visible in too many regions of this world and will worsen in 2023. In its work programme, the European Commission seeks to strike a fair and efficient balance between food security and environmental goals:

 

“Moreover, in the face of increasing global threats and the new geopolitical reality, accelerating the green transformation will enhance our long-term food security by building a sustainable and resilient food system.”

 

Regulatory frameworks are more important than ever to provide the framework for sound, environmentally and economically sustainable food production.

 

You will find the Work Programme here and the annex listing new initiatives here.

 

 

Download the infographic here.