European Food Security and Impact of Ukraine

In the context of a high-level working lunch, we aim to address the critical issue of European food security and emphasize the significance of maintaining consistent, reliable access to an ample and nutritious food supply. The ongoing geopolitical situation in Ukraine adds a layer of uncertainty, introducing potential risks to the intricate dependencies that sustain European food security.

The essence of European food security lies in ensuring that people throughout the continent have dependable access to an adequate, safe, and nutritious food supply, addressing their dietary requirements and promoting overall well-being. The resilience of European food security is closely tied to the stability of key food exports, forming a vital cornerstone in sustaining the continent’s nutritional needs.

Europe’s dependence on these exports underscores the critical role they play in maintaining the balance and reliability of the European food supply chain. Specifically, Ukraine plays a pivotal role as a major supplier of essential commodities, including wheat, barley, maize, and sunflower products. The continent’s heavy reliance on these exports highlights the significance of Ukraine’s contribution to the European food supply chain. Amidst this backdrop, the ongoing war in Ukraine and consequent sanctions raise concerns about the potential enduring impact on food prices. Both Ukraine and Russia are major food exporters, providing about 6% of global market shares in food calories each. The invasion puts this crucial supply at risk, exacerbating existing challenges, such as record-high food prices due to increased demand in the COVID-19 recovery and disruptions in supply chains. The disruption in the global fertilizer market may lead to reduced food production worldwide, affecting both import-dependent and traditionally reliant countries. To navigate these challenges, it is crucial to consider the potential scenarios for supply disruptions and their implications on global food exports.

In the context of this high-level working lunch, our focus will be to underscore, with the active engagement of MEPs, the imperative of prioritizing European food security. We will emphasize the critical need for a consistent and reliable supply of ample and nutritious food throughout the continent. The ongoing geopolitical complexities surrounding Ukraine introduce heightened uncertainties, necessitating a comprehensive discussion on strategies to safeguard and fortify European food security.