Food Sovereignty

This collection explores the complex concept of food sovereignty, addressing key questions about localization, market dynamics, social contradictions, and the movement's impact on global food systems and activism.

"Food Sovereignty" explores the multifaceted nature of food sovereignty (FS) as a significant political concept that has gained traction over the past two decades. It examines FS not just as a social movement, but also as an analytical framework and political project that challenges existing global discourses. The collection addresses critical questions surrounding the meaning of (re)localisation, the historical connections between FS and similar ideas, and its interactions with market and non-market forces in a predominantly capitalist world.

The book delves into the complexities of social contradictions that arise within the FS movement, particularly in relation to the nation-state. It highlights the tension between urban consumers, who often have different interests from food producers, and the implications this has for the movement's goals. Additionally, it scrutinizes how FS engages with contemporary issues such as crop booms and the challenges posed by corporate-influenced fair trade practices, questioning whether these alternatives align with the fundamental principles of FS.

Ultimately, "Food Sovereignty" calls for a renewed focus on research within this field, recognizing the movement's ability to inspire and mobilize a diverse range of activists and scholars globally. By bringing together voices from various backgrounds—young and old, men and women, rural and urban—the book aims to foster a deeper understanding of FS and its potential to reshape food systems in a way that prioritizes equity and sustainability. Originally published as a special issue of Third World Quarterly, this work contributes to the ongoing dialogue surrounding food justice and sovereignty.