Belgrade, 10 July 2025 – Food systems represent a key segment of the Serbian economy, and Serbia has a clear vision for sustainable production and improving the quality of food, it was emphasized today at the National dialogue on the food system transformation in Serbia, held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. The National Dialogue, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, brought together stakeholders with the aim of initiating an open discussion on sustainable food production, food system safety, and responses to climate change and global challenges. At the opening of the event, State Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, Jelena Blagojević, underlined that the food system transformation is not the issue of a single sector, but of society as a whole. “In recent years, through intensive work and more than 15 national and local dialogues, we have jointly identified 12 strategic directions that form the core of food system transformation in Serbia. These directions were not created in offices, but through conversations with farmers, entrepreneurs, teachers, experts, mothers, and young people from rural areas. This is why they are not just technical measures, but a reflection of the values we want to live by as a society – sustainability, fairness, inclusion, and health. What is crucial is that these directions do not remain at the level of recommendations. We are embedding them into the strategic documents and regulatory framework of our country – into the future Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy, into environmental protection strategies, into public policies on nutrition, education, and social protection. In this way, the food system transformation becomes part of our institutional fabric, something that permeates all policies that influence the lives and well-being of people,” explained State Secretary Jelena Blagojević. The panel discussion, titled “Food, people, and change: Local solutions for global challenges”, gathered representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, the National Association for Organic Production Serbia Organica, the company LoginEKO, the Center for Development of Jablanica and Pčinja Districts, and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, who shared their experiences and insights with participants, followed by an open discussion. The National dialogue was organized within the project “From Seed to Sustainability: Food Systems 4 All”, a one-year initiative funded by the Joint SDG Fund, with support from the European Union and the governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. This initiative in Serbia is led by the UN Resident Coordinator Office and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) together with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), with support from the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Serbia and other local partners.     

Niš, 16 June 2025 – Serbia has the opportunity to build a food system that not only feeds, but also protects – people, nature, and future generations. That transformation must begin with comprehensive policies and a clear strategy, providing equal opportunities for all. This was the key conclusion of the “Subnational Dialogue on Food Systems Transformation in Serbia,” held in Niš.“Food System Serbia 2030 is not a distant vision, but a reality we are already shaping today: women lead the changes, children eat local and healthy food, and nature is preserved — not just in declarations, but through concrete decisions and local actions. This transformation must be a joint effort — and it has already begun,” said Lorenca Jahia, Senior Economist in the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia.The dialogue brought together numerous local officials, agricultural producers, representatives of academia, civil society organizations, as well as the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator and UN agencies. Discussions focused on the urgency of change and on solutions that would enable local communities to become drivers of food systems transformation, one of the most important sectors in Serbia’s economy.“The UN’s ‘One Health’ approach reminds us that the health of people, animals, and the environment are deeply interconnected — and food systems lie at the intersection of these relationships. Building food systems that are climate-resilient, nature-friendly, and that promote health is essential to tackling today’s challenges. Whether through agroecology, reducing pollution, or preserving biodiversity, local actions play a key role in creating more resilient communities,” emphasized Pablo Sagredo Martín, Public Health Specialist at the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).The triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution — along with massive food supply chain losses and limited access to healthy diets — were at the heart of expert presentations and discussions. The consequences of these challenges are already strongly felt in Serbia, with data showing that since 2000, extreme weather events have caused more than €6.8 billion in damages, 70% of which is linked to droughts and high temperatures.“Preserving the health of people and nature is essential for the survival of civilization, and change begins with us — through clear and decisive public policies that place health and solidarity ahead of profit and consumption,” stated Professor Denis Kučević of the Faculty of Agriculture in Novi Sad. Dr. Mirjam Vujadinović Mandić of the Faculty of Agriculture in Belgrade added: “Ensuring sufficient quantities of quality food requires systematic adaptation to climate change at all levels, while protecting and wisely managing key resources such as water and soil.”Participants also discussed the potential of forming biodistricts and expanding organic agriculture in Serbia, particularly since less than 1% of arable land is currently under organic production.Biodistricts are geographic areas based on the principles of organic farming, where farmers, citizens, tourism and hospitality providers, educational and research institutions, public authorities, and associations collaborate to develop sustainable local food systems, improve local resource management, and foster economic and socio-cultural development.The dialogue further highlighted the crucial role of innovation in strengthening the entire food value chain, enabling faster and more efficient development, while reducing agricultural waste. Participants shared examples of good practices from Serbia and the EU and explored solutions adaptable to the local context.“Innovation is key to reducing food loss, but its successful application requires strong institutional support and fair resource distribution for all, especially the most vulnerable,” said Dr. Kata Trifković from the Irish company Inlecom Commercial Pathways. Marko Marić, Director of Eko Agrar in Čajetina, added: “Global measures and collective awareness are important, but even more crucial is for local actors to take responsibility and actively create solutions that can inspire others.”The Subnational Dialogue on Food Systems Transformation is one in a series of events preparing Serbia to participate in the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4) in July 2025 in Ethiopia, and to ensure the inclusion of national and local actors in planning and implementing a just transformation of food systems in Serbia.The dialogue was part of the project “From Grain to Sustainability – Food Systems for All”, a one-year initiative financed by the Joint SDG Fund, with support from the European Union and the governments of Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. In Serbia, the initiative is led by the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), together with UNEP and UN Women, supported by the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia and other national partners.The event was organized by the Center for Environmental Improvement as UNEP’s implementing partner, in collaboration with the local association ENECA.

BELGRADE, March 10, 2025 - As the current cooperation between the United Nations and the Government of Serbia approaches its conclusion, plans for a new strategic framework for the next five years are well underway. The previous framework (2021-2025), with a total value of 365 million euros, was crucial in aligning with Serbia's development goals, with emphasis on the green economy, human resource development, and strengthening the rule of law. The UN team in Serbia is already preparing the groundwork to continue these efforts for the 2026-2030 period. A special strategic meeting has been organized for this purpose."In this ever-evolving landscape, our duty is to forge a path that not only addresses present challenges but also anticipates future opportunities. The United Nations Cooperation Framework will act as the bridge between aspirations and tangible, lasting improvements for people in Serbia and environment. It’s a promise to work hand-in-hand with all stakeholders, embracing innovation and inclusivity to realize a sustainable future." - Matilde Mort, UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia."The Cooperation Framework is crucial for achieving the outcomes outlined in the 2030 Agenda, which are important for all citizens of Serbia. Through it, we plan to implement UN recommendations in our country and propose solutions for key development challenges over the next five years to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure a greener, healthier, and better future for our citizens," said Tanja Mišćević, Minister for European Integration. She further emphasized the role of the Government of Serbia as a credible and reliable partner in achieving shared goals and strengthening cooperation with UN organizations.During the discussions, the need for integrated, multi-sectoral strategies for effectively achieving development goals was highlighted. The UN team in Serbia and the Government reiterated their commitment to advancing the 2030 Agenda, maintaining a strong focus on inclusivity and solidarity.Building on the insights and experiences from implementing the Cooperation Framework for the period 2021-2025, the next phase will focus on addressing Serbia's development challenges while supporting reforms related to EU accession. The emphasis will be on creating innovative partnerships and financing strategies suited to Serbia's unique socio-economic situation.“Within this framework, the UN is expected to support Serbia in the process of implementing Sustainable Development Goals and its accession to the European Union. We are pleased not only to shape the role of the UN team in Serbia but also to contribute to the broader discussion on defining the role of the UN in upper-middle-income countries globally. This is a unique opportunity—for us, as representatives of the Government, and for the UN team in Serbia—to set a precedent and establish best practices that can be applied beyond our borders. This is an opportunity to be ambitious in this process, to set high standards, and to engage in work that holds substantial meaning and added value,” says Nikola Stojanovic, state Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The results of this strategic workshop will help define the goals of the new Cooperation Framework, ensuring alignment with Serbia's development objectives.

 Belgrade, 20 February 2025 – Over the past four decades, climate change has had considerable effects on Serbia and forest ecosystems in the country are vulnerable to droughts, increased temperatures, extreme weather events, fires, pest outbreaks and diseases.  Forest cover is degrading due to unsustainable wood harvesting, a heavy reliance on forests for energy, rural depopulation and lack of financial and knowledge capital of landowners. On 20 February an agreement for the project “Enhancing the resilience of Serbian forests to ensure energy security of the most vulnerable while contributing to their livelihoods and carbon sequestration (FOREST Invest)’’ was signed between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in its capacity as an Accredited Entity of the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Government of the Republic of Serbia, represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, as well as two public enterprises “Srbijašume” and “Vojvodinašume”.Over the course of seven years, FOREST Invest will enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems, improve energy security for vulnerable communities, and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Nearly three million residents of Serbia will indirectly benefit from improved forest resilience and sustainable management.Additionally, the project envisions afforestation of 7 000 hectares with climate-resilient tree species, the conversion of 51 000 hectares of degraded low forests into high forests, and the rehabilitation of at least 500 hectares of abandoned private agricultural land through agroforestry plantations. By implementing these and other measures, greenhouse gas emissions are expected to be reduced by 8.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2 e).The project, valued at USD 84 million, is funded by the Green Climate Fund, while co-financing is provided by the Government of the Republic of Serbia and FAO. This initiative is the result of years of collaboration between FAO, the Forest Directorate of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management, and other key national-level partners. "Serbia is committed to a future where forests are protected, energy is secure, and economic growth is sustainable. This project represents a key step towards realizing that vision, but also an expression of the political will for Serbia to become a leader in climate-smart forest management. Thanks to this initiative, we will protect our forests and strengthen Serbia's energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and open new opportunities for green investments. It is proof of our determination to align national development with global climate goals, while ensuring that the benefits reach communities and economies across the country," said  Aleksandar Martinović, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management in the Government of the Republic of Serbia.
"The partnership between FAO and the Government of Serbia is built on a shared commitment to sustainable development, food security, and climate resilience. By combining our technical expertise with national priorities, we can drive meaningful and lasting change," added Nabil Gangi, FAO Deputy Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia."This innovative project in Serbia increases investment in sustainable forestry initiatives that include both mitigation and adaptation measures. Progress in Serbia will guide future efforts in other countries,” said Henry Gonzalez, the Chief Investment Officer of the Green Climate Fund (GCF).The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a significant transformation in Serbia’s forestry and energy sectors, aimed at greater resilience, energy security, and sustainable development.About FAO and the GCFSince becoming partners in 2016, FAO and the GCF have been scaling up climate investments in high-impact projects that make the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors more efficient, inclusive, sustainable and resilient to climate change.By leveraging global partnerships, FAO catalyzes public and private investments in agriculture that promote innovative climate change adaptation and mitigation actions and drive the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in line with the FAO Strategy on Climate Change 2022-2031.The GCF – a critical element of the historic Paris Agreement – is the world’s largest climate fund, mandated to support developing countries to raise and achieve the ambition of their national climate plans known as Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).Related links:Green Climate Fund greenlights two major FAO-led projects to strengthen climate resilience in Kenya and SerbiaFAO and the Green Climate FundFAO’s work on climate and biodiversityFAO Investment Centre