Debates

Previous debates

School food and small scale farming

HGSF programs have the potential to not only benefit children but small scale farmers as well: because food necessities can be procured locally, a new market may be created for farmers. But is it a worthwhile investment in terms of scale and possible economic benefits? Join the debate.

Two views on GMOs

Do GMOs help us solve the problems related to agriculture and food? Can small-farmers benefit from this technology? Read the opinions.

To Farm or to Work in the city?

Young people play an important role in favour of small-scale and sustainable agriculture. Many of them are farmers. Yet many young farmers have to choose between farming and moving to the city. What is best? Have your say in our on-line debate. Read the opinions.

Can family farmers benefit from bio-fuels?

A global market for bio-fuels has been developing during the past ten years, which was one of the factors that contributed to the sharp increase in food prices in 2008. Since then, the cultivation of crops for bio-fuels, such as jatropha, has been a hot topic in the international development debate. Are bio-fuels an opportunity for small-scale farming? Read the opinions.

What does good water governance mean?

The livelihoods of small-scale farmers depend on fair access to water, yet their interests are often not taken into account, nor their voices heard. What does good governance mean in terms of water management? Should the focus of governance efforts be on drafting new legislation? Or is good governance reflected in the enforcement of the law? Read the opinions.

Should farmers get paid for providing ecosystem services?

The International Year of Biodiversity gives us a good opportunity look at agriculture’s relation with biodiversity. One proposed mechanism to stimulate environmentally friendly farming is PES, or Payments for Environmental Services. Can PES help conserve biodiversity? How can such a mechanism be implemented? Read the opinions.

Livestock services to family farmers: free or fee?

Livestock services are crucial for a healthy, resilient stock of animals. Small-scale family farmers need these services too, but how do they profit best and how can service delivery become most sustainable? Should it be “public good”, financed and organized by the state, or can private corporations do a better job? Read the opinions.