Pope Leo: 'Resources from the war industry to be converted back to agricultural research: an urgent ethical imperative'

Pope Leo XIV, recovering from lung cancer surgery, has called for redirecting military industry resources toward agricultural research, describing it as an urgent ethical imperative. His message was sent to Qu Dongyu, director-general of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), ahead of World Food Day 2026. The Pope emphasized the importance of serving humanity through new technologies rather than focusing on military industries. He highlighted ending global hunger and improving agriculture as top priorities, urging a new global food order where technological innovation serves human dignity and universal well-being. The Pope's statement comes amid growing concerns over food insecurity, climate change, and resource depletion. He warned that innovations driven by a desire to dominate nature and exclude the weak would lead to drought and conflict. Conversely, he argued that innovations rooted in respect for natural order and justice for the hungry would bring abundance for future generations. World Food Day 2026 focuses on the theme "Innovate today, nourish tomorrow," emphasizing the role of innovation in ensuring food security. The FAO faces mounting pressure to address challenges including climate shocks, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and economic instability. These issues affect food production, trade, and access to nutrition worldwide. The FAO has historically played a key role in international efforts to improve food security. Its responsibilities include setting global standards, generating reliable knowledge, and supporting nations in achieving food security, recognized as a basic human right. The organization is being urged to evolve into a leading impact agency for agrifood systems, focusing on prevention rather than crisis response. Advancements in technology, such as artificial intelligence and satellite imaging, enable early detection of environmental threats like droughts and floods. Preventive measures are deemed more humane, efficient, and cost-effective compared to post-crisis recovery. Each dollar invested in preventive actions can yield multiple dollars in avoided losses. The FAO is encouraged to streamline operations, enhance local engagement, and leverage digital tools to reduce bureaucratic hurdles. The goal is to prioritize practical outcomes over administrative complexity. Future effectiveness of multilateral organizations will depend on their ability to translate global expertise into tangible local benefits quickly and efficiently. People remain central to these transformations, with FAO staff considered its most valuable asset. As the organization moves forward, it aims to simplify procedures, empower local actors, and strengthen partnerships to better serve global food security needs.