In this interview, Marlynne Hopper—Head a.i. of the Standards and Trade Development Facility (STDF) Secretariat, hosted by the World Trade Organization—shares insights on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) capacity, innovative financing, and the partnerships that make safe trade and resilient agrifood systems possible.
The United Nations Youth Townhall: A space to connect and shape what comes next
16 September 2026 | 15:00-16:30 CEST | Virtual | The webinar will explore what happens when different forms of knowledge and innovation are brought into dialogue—and how we can ensure that technological development supports, rather than undermines, agroecological transitions.
The report emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable food system transformation, and the lack of finance. It provides an overview on how climate financing could mitigate and transform food system, strengthening small scale farmers, fishers, Indigenous People, and those who are most vulnerable to climate change.
As IFAD enters a new replenishment cycle and development actors navigate an increasingly fragmented global landscape, partnership and strategic coherence have never been more essential. Max Von Bonsdorff, IFAD’s Chief Partnership Officer, reflects on the institution’s strategic direction, the evolving role of the Donor Platform, and the kind of leadership needed to drive impact in the decade ahead.
2 December 2026 | Dublin | Generously hosted by the Government of Ireland and officially recognized as an Associated Presidency Event under Ireland’s 2026 EU Council Presidency, this year's AGA will highlight the strategic value and mutual benefits of agrifood investments to build a compelling investment case for decision makers. A special session will highlight women’s leadership in agrifood systems, marking the 2026 International Year of Women Farmers.
Africa Food Systems Forum 2026 (AFS Forum 2026) launches a youth webinar, bringing young traders, leaders, partners and activists to explore various ways to unlock greater opportunities.
The Committee on World Food Security holds its 54th Plenary Session (CFS 54), focusing on the SOFI 2026 Report and preparing the upcoming Multi-Year Programme of Work 2028–2031, drawing consideration to emerging and enduring issues for food security and nutrition.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping how agrifood systems operate. For donors and development partners, the central question remains how this potential can be translated into responsible, equitable, and practical action. This webinar brought together the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) to explore how AI is being applied in real programmes, what enabling conditions are essential, and where donors can most effectively engage.
The Global Donor Platform for Rural Development is a vibrant partnership, advocacy and knowledge network of key donors focusing on food security and rural development.
Secretariat hosted at the International Fund for Agricultural Development
Via Paolo di Dono 44, 00142 Rome, Italy
Email: protected email
