Consultation on the 2026 report to the Human Rights Council on “Agri-business, food security and human rights"

Background 

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This session is a multistakeholder consultation for the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights’ upcoming thematic report to the Human Rights Council, on the theme of Agri-Business, Food Security and Human Rights.

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In efforts to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals on zero hunger (SDG 2), a growing number of States, business enterprises, investors, and other stakeholders in the food, agriculture, and fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors have announced or are currently developing food security and food systems transformation programs aimed at boosting access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.

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Yet, concerns have emerged on how the design and implementation of food security programs, especially the rise in labelling manipulation, misinformation, illicit food trade, and other food fraud practices may hinder progress on the enjoyment of the rights to life, water, food and a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment.

To inform the report, the consultation seeks insights on how States and businesses are, or are not, upholding their respective duty and responsibility to protect and respect human rights in food security programs, in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

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The session will include a few speakers who set out some key issues to prompt interactive discussion with respect to the topic.  The speakers will also reflect on how the Guiding Principles should be upheld by States and businesses alike, posing questions for the audience to consider.

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Session Format​

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Moderated panel discussion with interactive Q&A.

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