The role of speculation in the continued volatility of global food prices continues to spark controversy. Even within the camp of multilateral institutions and those that have themselves prescribed globalisation policies that have facilitated and aggravated unbridled speculation-driven price hikes, the debate is drawing the line between truths and lies.

This paper examines the potential health effects of foods derived from genetically modified (GM) plants. While such an important topic, the database on the likely biological effects of GM foods is woefully inadequate.

This new report by PAN-AP reveals that hazardous pesticides are commonly used in unsafe situations around the world, and calls for assertive action by corporations, governments and international bodies to address pesticide hazards.

Most climate change models predict that this global phenomenon will have severe impacts on small farmers, particularly in developing countries. Increasing temperatures, droughts, heavy precipitation and other extreme climatic events could reduce yields by up to 50 percent in some regions, especially in drylands.