Political will should be given the highest priority yet it gets modest attention if any. The term is frequently used but often without substance, no definition, or lacking on ways to foster political will for food security. This paper is an attempt to address these gaps. The paper reviews developments in global and national political relations, thinking, and related institutional changes; the effect of such developments on the incidence of hunger; the ability and willingness of governments to eradicate hunger; and the efforts to foster greater political will for food security. The paper makes a strong case for good governance while mechanisms for policy development are essential to achieving food security. Building blocks such as the right to food, well-organized advocacy, self-help, partnerships and investments in public goods, are fundamental elements in advancing the food security agenda. Increasing awareness of the above blocks may be a useful reference point for policy debate and the setting of appropriate mechanisms. The aim should be to provide information to national leaders and policy-makers so that appropriate decisions can be taken, evaluation of progress made, to further foster and sustain political will in efforts to end food insecurity. Comments welcome.

Photo credit: FAO/J. Cendon