Summary
From January 15-17, 2026, the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) takes place in Berlin, with a focus on water and food security. Switzerland will be represented by Christian Hofer, Director of the Federal Office for Agriculture (BLW). Central discussion points include sustainable water use and solution approaches for usage conflicts. The conference results culminate in a final declaration that serves as the foundation for the UN Water Conference 2026.
People
- Christian Hofer – BLW Director, Swiss representative
Topics
- Water and food security
- Sustainable resource use
- International agricultural policy
- Usage conflicts and their solutions
Detailed Summary
The Global Forum for Food and Agriculture under the motto "Water.Harvest.Our Future." addresses the fundamental dependence on water for global food security. The forum brings together representatives from politics, business, science, and civil society to discuss strategic questions.
The political highlight is the 18th Berlin Agricultural Ministers Conference on January 17, 2026. Approximately 70 agricultural ministers and senior representatives of international organizations are expected. Switzerland will be represented by BLW Director Christian Hofer, who will be given the title of State Secretary for the duration of the plenary.
Central discussion topics include:
- More sustainable use of water resources worldwide
- Constructive solution approaches for usage competition
- Connection between water protection and long-term food security
The conference results will be documented in a joint final declaration, which will be adopted on January 17. This declaration serves as the foundation for further international discussions, particularly for the UN Water Conference at the end of 2026.
In parallel, Hofer will visit the Swiss pavilion at the International Green Week, the world's largest fair for food, agriculture, and horticulture, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
Key Statements
- Water is the foundation of food security – Its protection and responsible use are crucial for nature and humanity
- International coordination required – 70+ agricultural ministers work on joint solutions for usage conflicts
- Swiss engagement – BLW Director Hofer advocates for strengthening food security
- Long-term perspective – Conference results will shape international water policy through the UN Conference 2026
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
| Group | Role |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Ministries (70+ countries) | Decision-makers, policy development |
| Switzerland (BLW) | Active participation, bilateral talks |
| Agricultural Sector | Directly affected by water policy |
| Civil Society & Science | Advisory, knowledge transfer |
| Global Population | Benefits from improved food security |
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Harmonization of international water policy | Insufficient implementation of national measures |
| Innovative solutions for usage conflicts | Interest conflicts between countries |
| Strengthening global food security | Climate change threatens water availability |
| Swiss influence on international standards | Delays in UN Conference 2026 |
Action Relevance
Decision-makers should:
- Monitor conference results and final declaration from January 17
- Align national water protection strategies with food security
- Use bilateral talks for concrete cooperation
- Initiate preparation for UN Water Conference 2026
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements and data verified
- [x] All dates and organizations verified
- [x] No unconfirmed information included
- [x] Neutral, factual presentation without bias
Additional Research
- UN Water – Global Water Security & Sanitation Partnership: Current data on water resources and food security
- FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN): Reports on water in agriculture
- Federal Office for Agriculture (BLW): Swiss agricultural policy and international positions
Source Directory
Primary Source:
Press Release – State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) / Federal Office for Agriculture (BLW)
Published: January 15, 2026
https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/QRudZTfyb04sMT50KiJdJ
Supplementary Sources:
- Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) – Official Website
- FAO – Water and Food Security Reports
- UN Water Conference 2026 – Agenda and preparatory documents
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on January 15, 2026
This text was created with the support of Claude.
Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: January 15, 2026