The Status of Youth in Agrifood Systems

An evidence-based analysis reveals how young people navigate agrifood systems, uncovering both promising opportunities and persistent challenges. The study outlines ways to boost job creation and food security while offering policy recommendations to empower rural youth as catalysts for sustainable change. This publication presents the most comprehensive, evidence-based analysis of youth in agrifood systems to date, highlighting both the opportunities and structural barriers that shape their engagement. It explores how transforming agrifood systems can enhance decent job opportunities and food security for youth, and how empowered youth can drive this transformation. It concludes by highlighting policy recommendations and areas of investment to foster more equitable and sustainable agrifood systems, where rural youth are both beneficiaries and leaders of change. Digital editions of FAO publications are available on the FAO website as part of FAO’s Open Access policy.