How has the global food governance system evolved, and what challenges does it currently pose for food systems transformation? A narrative review and synthesis of the literature.

backgroundTransformative change in the global food governance (GFG) system is essential to address the interlinked crises of non-communicable diseases, social inequities, and environmental degradation that collectively undermine global health and sustainable development. However, this transformation agenda raises important questions regarding how powerful actors and interests, entrenched institutions and institutional legacies, and dominant ideologies and belief systems may resist or enable such change.

methodsIn this paper, we adopt a narrative review and synthesis method, drawing on multidisciplinary and grey literature, to explore these questions. We investigate the evolution of the GFG system through historical trajectories and institutional legacies and examine its current challenges through the lens of food systems transformation.

resultsFour interlinked key findings emerged. First, GFG has evolved from a predominantly multilateral system led by intergovernmental organisations and their member nation-states to a more decentralised multistakeholder system involving a diverse array of non-state actors and interests. Second, food systems and GFG have been constrained ideologically by neoliberal policy positions, exemplified by the narratives pushed by intergovernmental organisations such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and World Trade Organization. They have also been constrained financially by rich country governments and philanthropic donors, compelling key institutions to seek external funding and partnership opportunities merely to fulfill their basic mandates. Third, by privileging multistakeholder governance and public-private partnerships, the world's largest corporations and business interest groups have reshaped power relations in global policy agendas, including those established at multilateral 'world food summits,' in ways that sideline public health imperatives. Fourth, recurrent global food crises reflect deep structural and power asymmetry issues that have historically privileged certain nation-states and, increasingly, private sector actors, thereby perpetuating inequities that exacerbate global health vulnerabilities.

conclusionThe interconnected and complex challenges identified in this review - rooted in power asymmetry and institutional favouritism in GFG - pose significant barriers to transforming food systems in ways that safeguard public health, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Overcoming these obstacles is pivotal not only for achieving global climate and sustainable development goals, but also for rebalancing power in GFG so that policies better align with the needs of all people and the planet.