Food systems are at the heart of both EU policy and the climate crisis. The Common Agricultural Policy, consuming 32% of the EU budget, highlights the economic importance of the sector. However, food systems are the second largest global polluter, after fossil fuels. This situation demands change, and faith-based organisations (FBOs) have a crucial role to play in advocating for a sustainable food system.

A 2023 study by JESC identified over 150 diverse FBOs across the EU. These organisations, ranging in size and focus from land management to international development, already engage in EU-level advocacy. However, the study recognised the need for a more coordinated approach to amplify their voices.

Building on this, a network called ‘Our Daily Bread’ is taking shape in 2024, aiming to create a unified FBO voice in food systems advocacy. A webinar proposed the network and showcased existing advocacy work among the identified FBOs. ‘Our Daily Bread’ will initially focus on agroecology and diets, with other topics possibly being chosen later on.