Agriculture at a Crossroads - Summary for Decision Makers

This summary report presents the findings of the International Assessment of Agricultural Knowledge, Science and Technology for Development, examining how agricultural knowledge, science and technology can contribute to reducing hunger and poverty, improving rural livelihoods and human health, and supporting equitable, environmentally, socially and economically sustainable development. It reviews historical trends, current challenges and future options, considering food security, natural resource management, climate change, trade, governance, investment and gender equality. The document highlights that productivity gains have been unevenly distributed and often accompanied by environmental degradation, and outlines policy-relevant options to strengthen institutions, investment, innovation, participation and sustainable agricultural practices without prescribing specific policies.