Program Overview
The program overview can be downloaded as Pdf here.
Conference Structure
The three-day forum will feature topics related to the global food economy, international cooperation and trade, food security and geopolitical risks:
Day 1. The rise of anti-globalization sentiments: Is the global economy drifting away from free market principles?
Over the past few years, global markets, cultural exchange and the international community have experienced an escalating series of crises. Ongoing military conflicts, climate change, biodiversity loss and the COVID-19 pandemic have called into question the vision of a globalized economy. These developments have placed pressure on agricultural markets and caused global food security to deteriorate substantially. Populist national political responses have contributed to the rise of anti-globalization sentiments and further exacerbated global market and policy uncertainty. As a result, the global market system is increasingly drifting away from free market principles and moving towards the model of a “command” economy system triggered by trade wars, economic sanctions and obstructive state interventions in international trade relationships. Against this background, the first day of the forum will focus on recent geopolitical tensions from an interdisciplinary perspective and consider their effects on the economic, scientific, cultural, political and societal aspects of international cooperation.
Day 2. Recent crises and the role of international trade in food security
Heightened geopolitical risks and trade disputes targeting food and agriculture have posed significant challenges to international trade and global food security. National governments are increasing their attempts to mitigate risks by pursuing self-sufficiency, diversifying their food supplies and shortening global supply chains, while multilateral cooperation is declining. However, strong multilateral efforts are required to cope with humanitarian crises, prevent further economic fragmentation, maintain global integration and tackle climate change. The second day of the forum will look at whether the global food economy is experiencing a paradigm shift in the organization of global supply chains and examine the role of international agricultural trade, climate change and armed conflicts in global food security.
Day 3. Looking beyond the horizon: International economic cooperation and geopolitical tensions
Improving international trade and food security remains a critical aspect of sustainable development worldwide. In an increasingly interdependent world, global cooperation must be a priority to successfully respond to the multitude of shocks facing the global economy. During the forum’s third day, a panel of recognized experts in the field will discuss strategies and approaches for strengthening international economic cooperation, ensuring competitive trade structures and shaping resilient food chains in the era of “politics in trade”.