A recent report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), titled “The Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems”, sends a clear message: there are 1.3 billion young people (aged 15–24) globally, most of whom live in low- and middle-income countries where agrifood value chains are central to economic and social life.
Amid a deepening climate crisis and an aging agricultural workforce, young people are the key drivers of transformation—capable of boosting food production, ensuring sustainability, and generating decent employment. The statistics speak for themselves: 44% of working youth are engaged in agrifood systems, compared to 38% of adults. But the numbers vary widely—from 82% in crisis-affected areas to just 23% in industrialized economies.
A Growing Wave of Food Insecurity
One of the most alarming signals is the rising rate of food insecurity among youth: from 16.7% (2014–2016) to 24.4% (2021–2023), with a sharp increase in Africa. Lack of job opportunities—particularly among NEET youth (not in employment, education, or training), who account for over 20% and disproportionately affect young women—points to a generation at a crossroads.
Why This Matters for Everyone
The global economy could gain an extra $1.5 trillion if NEET youth (aged 20–24) were employed in decent work—nearly half of this could come from the agrifood sector.
Urban growth, migration, and climate shifts—approximately 395 million rural youth live in areas vulnerable to declining productivity—underscore the need for targeted investments.
Over 54% of young people now live in urban areas, raising concerns about future labor shortages in rural and agricultural zones.
Key Solutions for Inclusion and Progress
FAO recommends a three-step formula: Inquire » Include » Invest
1. Solid Data Collection
To build effective policies, we need robust datasets that reflect the real role and impact of youth in agrifood systems.
2. Active Participation
Youth voices must be heard—they deserve a place at the decision-making table as entrepreneurs, farmers, and innovators.
3. Targeted Financing
Rural infrastructure, modern agricultural education, access to credit and land—these are the pillars needed to make agrifood careers appealing and sustainable.
In Conclusion
The FAO report highlights just how critical youth are to the future of global food security. Without concrete investments in education, financing, participation, digital tools, and infrastructure, the risks—rural migration, lost knowledge, and economic vulnerability—could undermine decades of progress. But with a targeted, youth-centered approach, these same challenges can become real opportunities.
Source FAO.