Policy Support and Institutional Dimensions of Food Security

Abstract

Bangladesh Government initiated a consultative process of food security policy reform since the World Food Summit of 1996. Through this initiative the Government made a comprehensive food security policy framework such as National Food Policy and programming document called National Food Policy Plan of Action as well as an investment plan for food security known as Bangladesh Country Investment Plan. Several institutions in Bangladesh are involved with food security governance. To reflect the multidimensional nature of food security, various sectors and disciplines (ministries/department) are represented in these institutions. Four main bodies such as Food Planning and Monitoring Committee, Food Policy Working Group, Food Planning and Monitoring Unit, Thematic Teams are charged with formulating and implementing food security policies, in particular the National Food Policy and its associated Plan of Action. There is lot of success due to policy issues of food in Bangladesh, however, more specific policy issues need to be incorporated in the design of the different policy documents such as an enabling policy for fostering education both at a higher level for research purposes and a professional level for extension workers. In addition, there should be easy access on land, water resources and credit facilities for small and marginal farmers. Moreover, the need for a more effective and better governed regulatory and quality control of inputs to protect smallholders and enable them to invest in improved techniques and inputs. The need to improve the nutrition outcome safety nets, extension activities and others are essential to optimize their impact to ensure the food security of the country. The difficult enforcement of some existing regulations and rules should be addressed through empowering and disseminating information to communities and grass-root level actors. Coordination of food security including food production, safety nets and nutrition will be a challenge, in particular as it has to be inclusive of non-government sectors and development partners.