Food sovereignty in practice: A participatory tool for local-level assessment of farming systems

Abstract

Food sovereignty constitutes a counter-hegemonic paradigm that holistically links environmental, social, cultural, nutritional, economic, and political spheres. We propose a multidimensional and adaptable Food Sovereignty Assessment Tool (IASA – Portuguese abbreviation for Instrumento de Avaliação da Soberania Alimentar) to analyze local realities while fostering autonomy and rights awareness—the cornerstones of food sovereignty. Developed through a literature review and collaborative validation with researchers, peasants, and social movements in Brazil, the IASA engages with the diverse agricultural systems of the Global South. It offers two versions: i) a Detailed version (172 indicators) for academic and technical research, and ii) a Summarized version (57 essential indicators) as a participatory tool for community self-assessment, featuring reflective exercises and collective debate. By bridging scientific and traditional knowledge, the IASA seeks to advance the debate and action on food sovereignty in three key areas: academia, critical reflection among farming families, and support for collective decision-making to strengthen family, peasant, and indigenous agricultures.