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The Updated Comprehensive Framework for Action

At the end of 2009, the HLTF asked that the Comprehensive Framework for Action be updated so that it better reflects ways in which the UN system advises national authorities, other policy-makers, development practitioners, researchers and the private sector in their efforts to address food and nutrition security. While keeping the basic approach, which is still relevant, the Updated Comprehensive Framework for Action (UCFA) covers a wider range of issues and contains a more detailed treatment of all aspects of food and nutrition security than its predecessor.

It prioritizes sustainable agriculture, better ecosystem management, gender equity, the prerequisites for improved nutrition and the human rights of those least able to enjoy their right to food. The UCFA invites stakeholders to jointly address these dimensions as a whole. It also invites stakeholders to consider food and nutrition security as the outcome of an extensive range of sectoral policies and activities that need to be addressed comprehensively and coherently. It acknowledges that, while States have the primary role in ensuring food and nutrition security for all, a multiplicity of other actors have vital contributions to make.

A summary version of the UCFA

The UCFA is a complex document. Its strategic principles, concepts and outcomes need to be understood and translated into concrete actions by a wide range of stakeholders. Its principles and objectives need to be mainstreamed into the programming of HLTF members, especially at country level. Non-UN stakeholders value information about the existence and relevance of the UCFA for food and nutrition security.

This summary version of the UCFA has been prepared as an easy-to-read concise document that highlights the concepts and principles of the framework. Special attention has been given to maintaining the meaning and spirit of the full version of the UCFA without re-opening sensitive debates on which there is a measure of consensus.