Why the Belem Summit Still Matters for Turkey
The Belem climate summit, held in Brazil last year, elevated the profile of agriculture within global climate negotiations. It underscored that farming is not merely a rural economy footnote but a central pillar in shaping fairer food systems, protecting smallholder livelihoods, and driving agroecological transitions. For Turkey, a nation with a diverse climate and a vibrant farming sector, the Belem outcomes offer timely lessons and a roadmap for domestic reform. The core message is simple: climate action and agricultural resilience go hand in hand, and advancing one strengthens the other.
Why Turkey Needs a Bold, Inclusive Agricultural Agenda
Turkish agriculture faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Drought-prone regions, water resource pressures, and evolving pest dynamics demand resilient farming methods. At the same time, Turkey sits at the crossroads of traditional farming and modern agritech, capable of scaling innovations that protect yields while reducing emissions. A bold agricultural agenda would center smallholders, fair access to markets, and diversified crops—three pillars echoed in Belem’s focus on agroecology and equitable food systems.
Fair Food Systems That Benefit All
Belem highlighted that climate resilience cannot be achieved without fair, transparent food systems. For Turkey, this means policies that ensure farmers receive timely prices, access to financing, and predictable support during climate shocks. It also means strengthening food supply chains so that rural communities benefit from value addition, rather than being price takers at the mercy of volatile markets. A Turkish focus on fair procurement, robust extension services, and inclusive value chains can translate global ideals into practical gains on the ground.
Smallholders, Agroecology, and Local Knowledge
Belem’s emphasis on smallholders and agroecology aligns with Turkey’s own agricultural fabric, where millions depend on family farms and multi-cropping systems. Agroecology—priority on soil health, biodiversity, and farmer-led innovations—offers a practical pathway to increase resilience while lowering input costs. Turkish smallholders can lead pilot programs that blend traditional knowledge with science-backed practices, supported by farmer cooperatives and extension networks. Such approaches not only stabilize production but also restore trust in sustainable farming among consumers.
Policy Pathways and Concrete Steps
What would a Turkish action plan look like in light of Belem’s lessons? Key steps include:
– Invest in climate-smart irrigation and water-saving technologies to counter drought risks.
– Expand agroforestry and crop diversification to build resilience and improve soil health.
– Strengthen government-backed insurance and credit schemes tailored for smallholders.
– Promote inclusive price discovery and transparent markets that empower farmers.
– Scale farmer-led research and extension services to disseminate best practices quickly.
These measures create a robust backbone for Turkey’s agricultural sector while contributing to global climate goals.
From Belem to Ankara: Building Long-Term Resilience
The Belem summit’s momentum should translate into continued engagement with farmers, researchers, and civil society in Turkey. A resilient agriculture sector is not about chasing short-term gains; it is about investing in soil, water, and climate literacy that yields benefits across generations. When smallholders have secure livelihoods and access to fair markets, communities gain from stable food systems, rural jobs, and diversified income streams. This synergy between climate policy and agricultural development is what Belem advocates for—and what Turkey can deliver on the ground.
Conclusion: A Hopeful Agenda for Turkish Farmers
As the Turkish climate summit landscape evolves, the agriculture sector must be at the center of policy debates. By embracing Belem’s calls for fair food systems, strong support for smallholders, and a shift toward agroecology, Turkey can cultivate a more resilient, productive, and equitable farming future. The opportunity is clear: integrate climate-smart strategies with practical support for farmers, empower local knowledge, and scale up agroecological practices. In doing so, Turkey not only protects its own agricultural future but also contributes to a more sustainable global food system.
