Global Food and Water Security Program

Leading research, analysis, and policy recommendations to improve global food and water security

Around the world, food insecurity and malnutrition contribute to social and political unrest, and thwart human and economic development. Russia’s war in Ukraine has disrupted global agricultural markets and worsened food insecurity among nations already dealing with the lingering shocks from Covid-19, ongoing effects of regional conflict, and increasing impacts of climate change. And while climate change is limiting access to freshwater, demand for freshwater is increasing across sectors—including agriculture, which accounts for the majority of global freshwater use and is the greatest nonpoint source of water pollution. Water security at the household level is likewise critical to food security and nutrition everywhere.

The CSIS Global Food and Water Security Program conducts independent research and analysis and provides policy recommendations to address dynamic threats to global food security and global water security, with a distinct focus on the relationship between global food and water security policy under the CSIS Project on Water Security. 

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Photo: OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT/AFP via Getty Images

Photo: OLYMPIA DE MAISMONT/AFP via Getty Images

Artificial Intelligence for Food Security

CSIS’s Artificial Intelligence for Food Security project focuses on the promises and risks of AI-enabled technologies for global food security.

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AI for Food Security Forum

Presented by Global Food and Water Security Program
April 30, 2026 • 8:30 am – 6:30 pm EDT

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AI for Food Security Forum

The CSIS Global Food and Water Security Program will host a public event on the applications of AI for global food security.

Event — April 30, 2026

Iran, Fertilizer, and Food Security: Risks, Impacts, and Policy Responses

The war with Iran is threatening global agriculture markets and food prices, with some impacts emerging and more expected in the coming months. What can policymakers do to protect farmers and consumers—in the United States and around the world? 

Critical Questions by Caitlin Welsh — April 1, 2026

AI and Global Food Security: A Focus on Crop Breeding

AI promises to transform modern crop breeding, helping develop more resilient, nutritious, and higher-yielding crops with unprecedented pace—though barriers remain. CSIS experts unpack the benefits and risks of AI-enabled innovations for crop breeding around the world.

Critical Questions by Zane Swanson, Emma Curtis, and Caitlin Welsh — March 26, 2026

What Are the Hidden Costs of the War with Iran? | State of Play

The war with Iran has had significant consequences for food security, economic security, and humanitarian crises in the Middle East and beyond. CSIS’s Emily Harding, Caitlin Welsh, Mona Yacoubian, and Will Todman explore these hidden costs of the war with Iran.

Transcript — March 24, 2026

Could Iran Disrupt the Gulf Countries’ Desalinated Water Supplies?

The countries of the Persian Gulf critically rely on desalination systems for their water supplies. The conflict with Iran puts these vital resources at risk. Tehran could attack desalination plants in a bid to widen the war and raise its stakes.

Commentary by David Michel — March 19, 2026

Chokepoint: How the War with Iran Threatens Global Food Security

The war with Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint in global oil, natural gas, and fertilizer trade. CSIS experts examine the immediate impacts on farmers and markets—and the long-term risks to food security if shipping does not resume.

Critical Questions by Emma Curtis, Joely Virzi, and Caitlin Welsh — March 11, 2026