Climate change and food on the agenda of Brazilian Ministries

Abstract

The impacts of climate change (CC) on agricultural production, access to food and prices and, consequently, on food security and nutrition (FSN) are increasingly frequent and evident. In this context, incorporating food-related issues into climate change policy agendas is crucial. Using Kingdon’s multiple streams approach (1984), this study analyzes whether and how the interface of CC, agriculture, and FSN has entered the Brazilian governmental agenda. Based on document analysis of official websites and interviews with managers from selected ministries, three windows of opportunity were identified that facilitated the inclusion of this topic in agendas of Federal Government ministries. The first is external elements to the Brazilian Government, manifested in the economic limitations and opportunities arising from global climate agreements. The others emerged from governmental cycles and from the impacts of CC. Although shaped by the same governmental cycles and influenced by the same crisis, different interpretations, interests, and values produce distinct dynamics in problem and solution streams. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing the integration of CC, agriculture, and FSN interface into the Brazilian governmental agenda.