The main objective of this side event is to showcase food systems transformation processes and pathways in the Mediterranean, as a direct contribution to the UN Food Systems Summit (UNFSS) follow-up process, by fostering more knowledge sharing, leveraging new collaborations and partnerships, as well as, mobilizing more resources to further consolidate the joint SFS-MED Platform’s effort. Echoing the global objectives and efforts of the One Planet Network’s SFS Programme at regional level, the work conducted by the SFS-MED Platform focuses on leveraging cross-country and multi-stakeholder collaboration to advance sustainable food systems transformation in the Mediterranean region.

The side event builds on the outcomes of previous dialogues and events co-organized by the SFS-MED Platform in the framework of the UNFSS and the 3^rd World Conference on the Revitalization of the Mediterranean Diet, which saw the participation of UNFSS National Convenors from several Mediterranean countries. This process allowed to identify key priorities, areas of work, and potential levers of change that are now at the core of the SFS-MED Platform activities aimed at transforming food systems in the Mediterranean. The UfM Ministerial Declarations on Sustainable Blue Economy, Environment and Climate Change and Research and Innovation have further consolidated the political support around the process.

The expected outcome is the consolidation of a Mediterranean collaborative way forward, embracing the concepts of blue, green and circular economy, fostering research and innovation, and leveraging the Mediterranean diet to bring about more sustainable consumption and production patterns, all key for achieving progress towards the 2030 Agenda in the region.