A review assessing all UK official development assistance (ODA) support to agriculture between 2016 and 2021, with a specific focus on climate change.
This review finds that the UK’s aid to agriculture in a time of climate change has been mainly relevant, with many examples of effective interventions, although it has not been sufficiently coherent.
Findings
- There were many positive examples of UK aid to agriculture through delivery programmes, research and investments, but delivery on climate and nutrition goals varied across the portfolio with some missed opportunities.
- Until recently, British International Investment (BII) had few incentives to address climate change, nutrition or gender in its investments in agriculture.
- Prioritising the interests of UK universities rather than those of developing countries or Southern researchers compromised the developmental relevance of BEIS-funded agricultural research. FCDO-funded research, however, was highly relevant and delivered by organisations specialised in research for development impact.
- ODA budget cuts have also undermined UK’s international influence on agriculture.
