On October 17, 2024, the member nations of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) took a significant step to address one of the most pressing global issues—water scarcity in agriculture. The adoption of the Rome Declaration on Water Scarcity in Agriculture marked a crucial outcome of the High-Level Rome Water Dialogue, held during the FAO’s World Food Forum from October 14 to 18, 2024. This declaration emphasizes the need for immediate global action to combat water scarcity, which has been exacerbated by climate change, particularly affecting agriculture—the backbone of food security.
Understanding Water Scarcity
Water scarcity is a growing global crisis, referring to the inadequate availability of water resources to meet the demands of various uses, especially in agriculture. As agriculture consumes over 70% of the world’s freshwater resources, this sector is particularly vulnerable. The United Nations predicts that by 2050, more than half of the global population will face water scarcity for at least one month each year. This scarcity threatens the sustainability of agricultural practices and, in turn, food security for millions worldwide.
The WASAG Initiative: A Global Framework
The Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture (WASAG), launched at the 2016 UN Climate Conference in Marrakesh, plays a pivotal role in addressing water management challenges in agriculture. This initiative brings together governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private sector partners to collaborate on solutions for sustainable water use in agriculture. By fostering international cooperation, WASAG aims to assist countries in mitigating the impact of water scarcity, promoting resilience, and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
Key Commitments in the Rome Declaration
The Rome Declaration represents a renewed commitment from countries to confront water scarcity with enhanced political support and strategic action. Among the key commitments are:
- Policy and Legal Frameworks: Countries pledged to create supportive policies and legal structures to manage water resources more effectively, ensuring that agricultural practices align with the changing climate and environmental demands.
- Financial Access: The declaration emphasizes the importance of providing financial resources to farmers and agricultural enterprises, enabling them to adopt water-efficient technologies and practices.
- Climate Change Response: Recognizing the devastating impacts of climate change, such as floods and droughts, on agricultural productivity, the declaration calls for integrated strategies to improve food security and adapt to the shifting climate patterns.
Family Farming: A Pillar of Food Security
Family farming remains a cornerstone of global food production, with over 90% of all farms worldwide being family-owned. These farms are responsible for producing 70-80% of the world’s food, especially in low- and middle-income countries. They play a crucial role in maintaining crop biodiversity and managing natural resources sustainably.
However, despite their importance, family farmers face numerous challenges, including limited access to markets, resources, and services. Their vulnerability to environmental and economic crises further threatens global food security. Therefore, supporting family farming is essential to building resilient agricultural systems.
United Nations Decade of Family Farming
The year 2024 marks the midway point of the United Nations Decade of Family Farming (UNDFF), which spans from 2019 to 2028. This initiative, adopted by the UN General Assembly with the support of 104 countries, seeks to strengthen the role of family farming in global food security. By fostering policies that enhance the livelihoods of family farmers, the UNDFF aims to build more sustainable and inclusive food systems.
IFAD’s Investment Goals
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has committed to mobilizing $10 billion over the next three years to support agricultural productivity and rural resilience. This funding will focus on improving the livelihoods of rural communities by increasing incomes, developing entrepreneurial opportunities, and creating jobs. It is particularly aimed at empowering small-scale farmers and rural entrepreneurs to adapt to the challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity.
The Future of Water Management in Agriculture
Addressing water scarcity is crucial to ensuring the sustainability of global food systems. The commitments outlined in the Rome Declaration represent a significant step toward better water management practices in agriculture. By supporting family farmers, enhancing political and financial frameworks, and promoting international cooperation through initiatives like WASAG, the global community is working towards a more resilient and sustainable future in agriculture. These efforts are vital to overcoming the challenges posed by water scarcity and ensuring food security for future generations.