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Johan Swinnen

@jo-swinnen.bsky.social
179 followers 87 following 46 posts

Director General of @IFPRI.org and Global Director of Systems Transformation at @CGIAR.org. Working together toward a world free of hunger and malnutrition. #OneCGIAR

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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Alice Ruhweza of #AGRA & I write about why the new #AfricanUnion Youth in Agrifood Systems Performance Index matters for understanding how to create work that offers real opportunity, as millions of young Africans enter the labor market every year. www.standardmedia.co.ke/smart-harves...
standardmedia.co.ke
Why measuring youth opportunity in Africa's agrifood systems is essential for growing quality jobs
Better measurement can help governments and development partners move beyond counting youth participation toward tracking job quality, and identifying investment gaps.
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 05/08/2026
With deep sadness, we share the news of the passing of Alberto Valdés, an accomplished agricultural economist and long-standing friend to many of us at IFPRI. He joined IFPRI in 1976 and served as a Program Director of the Food Trade & Food Security Program until 1989. 📰 on.cgiar.org/3SjIRpb
on.cgiar.org
In Memoriam: Alberto Valdés (1935–2026)
IFPRI mourns the passing of Alberto Valdés, an accomplished agricultural economist and a long-standing colleague and friend.
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 30/07/2026
🆕 #Blog: Understanding agrifood systems in flux: Johan Swinnen and Christopher Barrett on the award-winning 2025 Global Food Policy Report. 📝 on.cgiar.org/3Tt5UOB #GFPR2025 @cgiar.org @aaea-economics.bsky.social @jo-swinnen.bsky.social
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
Congratulations, John! So well deserved for all your brilliant and impactful work.
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 28/07/2026
🏆 IFPRI’s #GFPR2025 won the @aaea-economics.bsky.social 2026 Quality of Communication Award! Thank you for this honor and recognition that rigorous research & effective communication are equally important for informing better decisions & meaningful action. 📰: on.cgiar.org/3Tov9la @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 17/07/2026
Pleased to attend the 30th #ICABR Conference. I discussed how international research institutes should take on the role of facilitator among private, public, and philanthropic actors to help build trust, harmonize regulation, and expand the #bioeconomy frontier responsibly. @cgiar.org @ifpri.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 09/07/2026
It was a pleasure to participate in the IFI Roundtable on #Fertilizer Resilience and #FoodSystems Transformation. I shared insights on global shocks, fertilizer markets, and food security. Thanks to all participants for the engaging discussion. @cgiar.org @adb.org @treasurydept.bsky.social
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
Last week, I discussed financing agricultural productivity growth in times of global disorder at the 19th #EWEPA @tum.de. As decades-long improvements in food security and poverty stall or reverse worldwide, increasing investments in agricultural productivity is imperative. @cgiar.org @ifpri.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
Honored to deliver the keynote at the Italian Association of Agricultural and Applied Economics (AIEAA) Congress. We discussed the impacts of economic growth, conflict, climate extremes, and aid and trade disruptions on global food security and what it will take to build more resilient food systems.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 04/05/2026
Last week I spoke at the World Bank Land & Property Research Conference 2026 on how global conflicts affect food security & smallholders. I also discussed why data governance & digital public goods are key to keeping AI inclusive and avoiding a new “landlord” class. @cgiar.org @ifpri.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 30/04/2026
I was pleased to join the World Bank to discuss #WDR2025 and agrifood standards for African development. Targeted investments and institutional innovations must be put in place along the value chain to ensure standards act as levers, not barriers, for smallholders and SMEs. @cgiar.org @ifpri.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
Pleased to co-host the launch of the next-gen HungerMapLIVE with @wfp.org. Stronger data, better forecasts and AI-enabled insight help us act earlier on food crises. It was an honor to welcome WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain to introduce the platform. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 20/04/2026
Last week, I participated in a discussion on how agricultural insurance can unlock investment, resilience, and recovery for smallholder farmers hosted by @ifpri.org, @cgiar.org and @bmz.de. The key challenge now is scaling proven solutions to reach more farmers effectively and affordably.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
IFPRI was grateful to host Her Excellency Éléonore Caroit of France's Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs for the 35th Martin J. Forman Memorial Lecture. This year’s lecture recognized the leadership of France and Minister Caroit as a champion for international #nutrition. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
On Wednesday, I was delighted to join a World Bank Knowledge Café with Felix Nkulukusa, Treasury Secretary of Zambia, and Marianne Grosclaude, World Bank, to discuss why and how governments can make progress on agricultural subsidy reform and start spending smarter. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
Yesterday, I participated in a discussion on how the Middle East conflict is adding new pressure to global food systems, hosted by @ifpri.org, @cgiar.org, and the UK FCDO. Amid challenges facing global supply chains, strengthening resilience and investing in timely analysis are critical.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 14/04/2026
Yesterday I was glad to join the "Philanthropy and the Future of Food Security" event with @cgiar.org and @atlanticcouncil.bsky.social. Philanthropy cannot replace public development funding, but it can respond more rapidly, take risks, and help scale the innovations our food systems urgently need.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 08/04/2026
IFPRI is pleased to renew our partnership with the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) through a new MoU with goals to address regional agri-food policy needs, strengthen data systems, and share capacity with the Dakshin Global South Centre of Excellence. @cgiar.org
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 19/03/2026
How can we ensure that women truly benefit from food, land and water systems? In this video in recognition of #IWD2026, @jo-swinnen.bsky.social discusses the importance of including women not just as participants but as co-designers. @cgiar.org #IYWF2026
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 19/03/2026
At the Asia and the Pacific Food Systems Forum 2026 @adb.org, I joined a breadth of actors to explore scaling science-backed investments for climate-resilient food systems. Assistance that also builds resilience and is well-informed by evidence should be the norm. @cgiar.org #AFS2026
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 08/03/2026
On #InternationalWomensDay, we celebrate women shaping a more food-secure, equitable, and resilient world. From farms to policymaking, women drive innovation in food systems—yet barriers remain. At @ifpri.org, we’re committed to research and partnerships that empower women and girls. #IWD2026
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 12/02/2026
Building #resilience is central for robust food chains amidst an uncertain future. At Economist Impact's inaugural Future of Food Summit, I emphasized the role of #data in illuminating the challenges agri-food chain actors face—and informing the most effective path ahead. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
Always a great pleasure to work with CIMMYT colleagues and welcome them at IFPRI. Here is to enhanced collaboration in 2026 and beyond!
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 29/01/2026
Last week I attended the #WorldEconomicForum in #Davos where I engaged with public & private sector leaders on food systems and resilience. I joined a COP16 Presidency UNCCD panel, highlighting how data & research inform policy around drought, agricultural resilience, and food systems. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 21/01/2026
Pleased to represent @ifpri.org and @cgiar.org at #GFFA2026. I moderated the breakout session “Finding Constructive Solutions for Competing Uses,” where ministers outlined policy strategies for integrated #water management among farmers and other sectors—an imperative for food security. #GFFA
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 19/12/2025
Thank you to all the policymakers, researchers & partners who joined us for our “Shaping Food Policy in a Changing World: Research Priorities for Greater Impact” event. Proud to celebrate 50 years of @ifpri.org & continue advancing research that delivers impact in the years ahead. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 10/11/2025
Last week I attended the #AGORA25 Conference in Palermo, Italy, exploring how to tackle Africa’s most urgent priorities: job creation and growth. Agriculture is an essential part of this. The #MatteiPlan and #AgriConnect show how partnerships can turn policy into progress. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 31/10/2025
Honored to have spoken at the 1st Annual Food and Agricultural Policy Summit where I shared insights on global disorder and the urgent need to finance food systems transformation. Thank you to @foodtank.bsky.social, Global Food Institute at GW, Culinary Institute of America, and José Andrés Group.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 24/10/2025
I was honored to join Cary Fowler, @cgiar-emd.bsky.social, Michael Werz, and Sir Richard Roberts for “Peace on the Plate: A Legacy of Security” at the World Food Prize Foundation #BorlaugDialogue2025 to discuss the urgency of tackling acute food insecurity in fragile & conflict-affected settings.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 23/10/2025
Looking forward to speaking at the inaugural Food and Agriculture Policy Summit on October 28, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Thank you to @foodtank.bsky.social, the GW Global Food Institute, Culinary Institute of America, and José Andrés Group for hosting this event. www.eventbrite.com/e/1st-annual...
eventbrite.com
SOLD OUT! 1st Annual Food and Agriculture Policy Summit
SOLD OUT. Co-hosted by José Andrés, Food Tank, the Global Food Institute at GW, and the Culinary Institute of America
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 17/10/2025
Proud to join colleagues from @ifad.org, UNU-WIDER, IMF, IDB, & the Govt of Somalia at IFPRI’s seminar “Tackling Extreme Poverty & Financing for Food Systems in Africa" for a timely dialogue on solutions for Africa’s development. www.ifpri.org/event/tackli... @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 10/10/2025
I was pleased to join #11EAFRDConf @fi-compass.eu to speak about challenges in agri-food value chains and their financing needs on-farm, pre- and post-production. The #EU can serve as a model for value chain innovations utilizing public policy and private sector strategies. @ifpri.org @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 07/10/2025
Great discussions at the #StockholmFoodForum2025! I was glad to present findings from FSEC’s latest global policy report and answer questions on trade, subsidy reform, and the path to food systems transformation. @cgiar.org @ifpri.org #FoodSystems #TradeReform
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 29/09/2025
Last week, I was honored to sign a MoU between IFPRI & the South Asian Assocation for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) with H.E. Ambassador Golam Sarwar, strengthening collaboration on agriculture & food policy in South Asia. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 24/09/2025
At the #G20SouthAfrica Agriculture Ministers Meeting last week, I discussed a strategic opportunity for #Africa: harnessing livestock for climate resilience and food security. With @cgiar.org science, Africa can take a lead in integrating livestock and climate policies. hdl.handle.net/10568/176489
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 12/09/2025
I am excited to share my recent @natfood.nature.com World View article: “Financing food systems in times of global disorder.” “We should focus on creating a more diverse and efficient food finance system." Read here: doi.org/10.1038/s430... @IFPRI @CGIAR #foodsystems #foodsecurity
doi.org
Financing food systems in times of global disorder - Nature Food
Global development financing is transforming alongside trade and political disruptions. We should focus on creating a more diverse and efficient food finance system, including repurposing public suppo...
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 09/09/2025
Global development financing is transforming alongside trade and political disruptions. Read more in this new article published in Nature Food by IFPRI Director General @jo-swinnen.bsky.social: rdcu.be/eFev2 🔗 doi.org/10.1038/s430... @cgiar.org
rdcu.be
Financing food systems in times of global disorder
Nature Food - Global development financing is transforming alongside trade and political disruptions. We should focus on creating a more diverse and efficient food finance system, including...
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 04/09/2025
I am grateful to have joined #AFSForum2025 to reflect on the history and future of @ifpri.org in #Africa and priorities for food systems financing. It was energizing to discuss opportunities for collaboration with the various actors powering African agri-food transformation. @cgiar.org
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 29/08/2025
Looking forward to joining everyone at the Africa Food Systems Forum 2025 in a few days. Learn more about IFPRI participation at the #AFSForum2025 here: www.ifpri.org/event/africa... #OurFutureOurFood @cgiar.org
ifpri.org
Africa Food Systems Forum 2025 Summit
The Africa Food Systems Forum will host its annual summit in Dakar, Senegal, from August 31 to September 5, 2025. Africa’s Food Systems Forum, formerly
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 28/08/2025
IFPRI’s @jo-swinnen.bsky.social and @pmenon1.bsky.social were featured this new episode of VoxDevTalks, where they discuss the landmark 2025 Global Food Policy Report, which reviews 50 years of progress and setbacks in global food systems. 🎧 voxdev.org/topic/health... @voxdev.bsky.social
voxdev.org
Food policy: Lessons and priorities for a changing world
What can 50 years of policy research tell us about the future of food (in)security?
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
VoxDev @voxdev.bsky.social · 27/08/2025
🆕 Food policy: Lessons and priorities for a changing world 📢 Today on VoxDevTalks, @jo-swinnen.bsky.social & Purnima Menon (@ifpri.org @cgiar.org) review the last 50 years of research on food policy – and what it means for the future of food (in)security: voxdev.org/topic/health...
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 04/08/2025
It was a pleasure to welcome Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Secretary of Planning Michael Kumung and Ambassador Cephas Kayo to @ifpri.org last week as the IFPRI-PNG team concludes training with #PNG researchers on CGE modeling to build capacity for data-driven policymaking. @cgiar.org
Ambassador Cephas Kayo and Deputy Secretary of Planning Michael KumungThe IFPRI-PNG team
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 01/08/2025
Honored to have attended the #AAEA2025 to accept the Quality of Communication Award alongside Loraine Ronchi and Thomas Reardon for our paper on “Harnessing Agrifood Value Chains to Help Farmers be Climate Smart.” @aaea-economics.bsky.social @cgiar.org @ifpri.org #FoodPolicy #FoodSecurity
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 30/07/2025
It was great to participate in #ABCDE2025 at the World Bank last week to discuss growth and opportunity in #Africa. Agriculture is foundational to growth on the continent. We must boost investment in R&D to increase productivity and enable transformation in this crucial sector. @cgiar.org
With Leonard Wantchekon and Matteo BugamelliWith moderator Gero Carletto and fellow panelists Andrew Dabalen, Amb. Robin Renee Sanders, and Leonard Wantchekon
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 11/07/2025
Last week I joined the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (#FFD4) in Seville to discuss financing food systems transformation. We must scale innovative finance and repurpose public agricultural support to deliver real impact. Watch here: on.cgiar.org/3G3lvxX @cgiar.org
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International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 30/06/2025
Today, we're launching a new blog series, "Financing Food Systems Transformation," which will explore the scale of financing needed to make food systems healthier, more equitable, and sustainable. 🧵👇
on.cgiar.org
Financing healthy, equitable, and sustainable food systems: Laying out options for action
A new blog series.
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 20/06/2025
Enjoyed an engaging trip to Beijing last week for the joint launch of #GFPR2025 and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences flagship report, plus a WAFI Dialogue. It was also a pleasure to meet with the IFPRI Beijing office, former DG Shenggen Fan, and leaders of the DRC, CAU, and IAED.
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 10/06/2025
📚In this 'Weekly Reads from IFPRI', we are excited to present a new special issue of Food Policy 📰 which explores the complex interactions between fertilizer use 🌱, soil health management 🌍, and economic shocks 📉 in various agricultural systems: on.cgiar.org/45Pnz7b @cgiar.org
on.cgiar.org
Special Issue: Fertilizer and soil health policies in the context of global supply disruptions and economic crises
In this Weekly Reads from IFPRI, we are excited to present a new special issue of Food Policy which explores the complex interactions between fertilizer use, soil health management, and economic shock...
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Johan Swinnen @jo-swinnen.bsky.social · 30/05/2025
This week @ifpri.org launched #GFPR2025, a reflection on five decades of food policy evolution and a call to action for a research agenda that meets the demands of the next generation: 📷 www.ifpri.org/event/2025-g... 💻 www.ifpri.org/global-food-... 📘 hdl.handle.net/10568/174108 @cgiar.org #IFPRI50
Unveiling the 2025 GFPR with Purnima Menon, Charlotte Hebebrand and former IFPRI DGs Per Pinstrup-Anderson, Shenggen Fan, and Joachim von Braun.
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Reposted by Johan Swinnen
International Food Policy Research Institute @ifpri.org · 31/03/2025
IFPRI Director General @jo-swinnen.bsky.social will participate in the inaugural CGIAR Science Week in Nairobi, Kenya. ♻️🌾 Learn more about #CGIARScienceWeek and explore how we can create a sustainable and food-secure future: on.cgiar.org/49e0KZs #WithScienceWeCan @cgiar.org
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