Positive Youth Development and the Global Food Security Strategy

The U.S. Government Global Food Security Strategy (GFSS) 2022-2026 outlines a comprehensive approach to sustainably reduce global hunger, malnutrition, and poverty, continuing the efforts from the previous strategy. Led by USAID through the Feed the Future initiative, the GFSS emphasizes inclusive agricultural growth, resilience, and improved nutrition, particularly for women and children. A critical focus is placed on youth, who are significantly impacted by rapid population growth in priority countries and face challenges such as unemployment and educational barriers, particularly young women.

The literature review from the REFS Youth in Agri-food Systems Learning Activity (YASLA) examines how GFSS objectives relate to youth empowerment and poverty reduction. It investigates effective strategies for alleviating poverty among youth and their potential contributions to economic growth. Employing multiple lenses of youth development, the review aims to provide insights and recommendations for enhancing youth involvement in achieving GFSS goals.