Following from the observation of a stalemate and a waiting game in food policy, as described above, we propose a strategic dialogue among key Nordic food actors with the goal to develop and agree on concrete food policy proposals. These suggestions are to be used to influence and push for effective and common public food policies in the Nordic region.
The first step is to set up a thought leader forum to develop a visionary, science-based set of recommendations for the necessary policy changes to urgently achieve a healthy and sustainable food system. Step two is, with the set of recommendations as a starting point, to establish a strategic dialogue among powerful food system stakeholders including farmers, producers, the food retail sector, researchers, advocacy groups and major NGOs. The aim is to develop a common policy framework for transforming the Nordic food system. Inspiration on how to structure the strategic dialogue can be gleaned from the strategic dialogue on the future of EU agriculture completed in 2024. In this case, the focus is broader – the food system as such, including consumer behaviour – while the geographic context is narrower – the Nordic countries.
Such a policy framework might include common consumption-based policies, e.g. implementing and streamlining health-related taxes to improve public health and avoid border trade; common changes to the CAP and other agricultural policies; investments in production and processing systems; and gastronomy investments in initiatives to change social norms and accelerate social tipping points. This project could be initiated and headed by the Nordic Council of Ministers with the goal of securing additional funding from foundations.