“Climate Change, Farmers, and Nutrition: A National Security Issue in the United States”

The Farm Journal Foundation, a nonprofit organization, has released a new report highlighting the critical links between climate change, farmers, and nutrition in low-income countries. According to Katie Lee, the vice president of government affairs at the foundation, the issue is a matter of national security in the United States.

The report, authored by Ramya Ambikapathi and Daniel Mason-D’Croz from Cornell University, reveals that weather events in recent years have resulted in lower harvests, lost agricultural incomes, and rising food prices. These factors have contributed to increasing rates of malnutrition, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where farming is a primary source of income.

One of the key findings of the study is that approximately 3 billion people worldwide cannot afford a well-balanced, healthy diet. Women farmers, in particular, are disproportionately affected by climate change due to higher exposure and sensitivity. They often lack access to information and financial services, making it difficult to address crop losses or pest infestations.

Ambikapathi emphasized that women, who are often responsible for obtaining water, are forced to travel further distances during drought-like conditions. This increased burden can lead to higher instances of gender-based violence. Mason-D’Croz added that vulnerable groups with limited resources are the hardest hit by external shocks such as climate events or economic downturns.

The report offers recommendations for U.S. policymakers to support global nutrition security, including investing in agricultural research and development, programs benefiting women’s nutrition, and improving farmers’ access to finance. Lee highlighted the importance of policy actions to address challenges like climate change, global hunger, and malnutrition.

In addition to being a national security issue, global nutrition also poses risks related to pests, health, and economic trade. Lee emphasized the potential for trade opportunities in regions like Africa, where working with smallholder farmers could benefit U.S. agriculture.

Ultimately, Lee stressed that addressing global nutrition is not only a strategic priority but also a moral imperative. She stated, “Anyone who is hungry in this world, any child or mother who is hungry, is not acceptable.” The report underscores the urgency of taking action to ensure food security and nutrition for all.