On November 15, 2023, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held a press conference in London to announce a new science initiative aimed at addressing global food security. The initiative, led by CGIAR, will focus on developing climate-resilient crops and will be introduced at a Global Food Security Summit being hosted by the UK government.

The summit is a joint effort between Britain, Somalia, the UAE, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It is expected to be attended by representatives from over 20 countries. Sunak emphasized the need to address underlying causes of global food insecurity, citing events such as Russia’s war in Ukraine and major natural disasters on food production.

In addition to the new science initiative, the UK government will publish a new international development policy document detailing plans to work with partner countries to combat extreme poverty and climate change instead of purely providing aid money. The priorities outlined in the policy document include mobilizing international finance and leveraging innovation. Moreover, Britain will offer humanitarian funding of up to 100 million pounds ($125 million) to countries most affected by food insecurity and climate-related disasters such as cyclones and droughts.

These upcoming initiatives reflect the UK’s commitment to addressing global food security through scientific research, international partnerships, and financial aid.