On World Day of Social Justice, which is observed on February 20, ProVeg International has called for increased recognition of the role of food systems in building fairer societies.
The organization notes that industrial animal agriculture is associated with the exploitation of workers, who are often undocumented migrants. Those working in slaughterhouses and factory farms may suffer injuries and repetitive physical strain, and are also at increased risk of psychological distress. in some cases, this leads to depression, PTSD, domestic violence, or suicide.
Meanwhile, government subsidies and supply chains favor large agribusiness, making it challenging for small farmers to succeed. Consequently, smallholders often face debt and economic instability.
Benefits of a plant-based food system
ProVeg argues that a plant-based food system could provide benefits such as safer jobs for workers and economic empowerment for small farmers, who could receive subsidies to transition to sustainable crops. Small-scale plant-based farming could also reduce reliance on global supply chains, improving food security.
These diversified systems would be able to withstand climate shocks more effectively, and shifting away from industrial livestock production could reduce the risk of pandemics and zoonotic diseases. Furthermore, plant-based agriculture could mitigate environmental issues such as land degradation and pollution.
Policy measures
ProVeg suggests several policy measures to create a just food system transition, including:
- Reforming subsidies to redirect financial support from industrial livestock production to sustainable plant-based farming.
- Strengthening labor protections for agricultural workers, particularly those impacted by the protein transition.
- Investing in R&D to develop sustainable plant-based alternatives.
- Supporting small-scale farmers through resources and training to help them transition to plant-based agriculture.
- Including farmers in decision-making regarding food system reform.
- Ensuring institutional food procurement policies prioritize plant-based options, driving the demand for sustainable foods.
According to ProVeg, industrial animal agriculture counteracts the principles of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8; this promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
“We have an opportunity to shift towards a system that prioritizes social justice, sustainability, and fairness,” says ProVeg. “Governments, businesses, and individuals must take decisive steps to transform our food systems – ensuring that justice extends not only to those who consume food but also to those who produce it.”
