Managing Global Resources for a Secure Future

The purpose of this session is to explain the global research agenda supporting the Global Food Security Act (GFSA), passed by Congress in July 2016. The GFSA calls for the coordination of a U.S. global food security strategy that builds on the successes of the Feed the Future initiative. The strategy is designed to help hungry and malnourished nations around the world develop smart, long-term, country-specific agriculture policies and to ensure these nations independently meet the nutrition needs of their people. A research agenda supporting the GFSA will need to build on the success of the Feed the Future initiative and address biophysical issues around crop and livestock production and post-harvest processing and handling and socio-economic issues around resilience, household decision making, and gender equity. The intended session participants are those working in research and development related to global food security, resource management, and human health.  Presenters will outline the purpose and scope of the GFSA research agenda and discuss research partnerships, implementation strategies, and potential impacts. Scientists and development practitioners from Africa and Asia have been identified and confirmed to present first-hand research and development narratives. Additionally, confirmed U.S. government and university speakers will provide information on the research strategy, development targets, and approaches.