Biovision
Qualifications: Master’s degree in natural sciences, agronomy or a related field. At least 5 years of professional experience in sustainable agriculture, agroecology, nature conservation or similar, ideally with experience in tropical contexts. Proven experience in project and programme management. Strong analytical, synthesis, and presentation skills. Proficiency in English and very good command of German (minimum B1). Swiss passport or valid residence permit (C/B) required.

New data published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development show that Switzerland’s official development assistance (ODA) declined further in 2025, reaching approximately 0.36% of gross national income—well below the internationally agreed 0.7% target set by the United Nations.

According to Alliance Sud, Switzerland is now achieving only about half of this target, despite a favourable fiscal context. The country also failed to meet its own intermediate objective of 0.5%, raising questions about the political prioritisation of international cooperation.

This trend reflects a broader shift in global development financing. In recent months, major geopolitical developments—including the dismantling of United States Agency for International Development under the administration of Donald Trump—have contributed to a weakening of multilateral engagement. Several Western countries are increasingly reallocating public resources towards defence and domestic priorities, often at the expense of development cooperation.

The implications are significant for global agrifood systems. Reduced public financing risks undermining long-term investments in agricultural research, rural development, and food system transformation—particularly in low-income countries already facing compounded pressures from climate change, market volatility, and geopolitical instability.

At the same time, the debate remains politically contested. While a majority of the Swiss population reportedly supports maintaining or increasing development spending, current policy trajectories point in the opposite direction.

In this context, declining commitments to international cooperation raise broader concerns about the future of collective action on global challenges, including food security, sustainable agriculture, and the resilience of food systems worldwide.

The ongoing disruptions linked to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are exposing the structural vulnerabilities of global agrifood systems, with significant impacts on food security in the Global South. According to SWISSAID, the crisis highlights the heavy dependence of agriculture on fossil fuels, particularly for fertilizer production and transport.

Rising energy prices are already affecting partner countries. In Tanzania, fuel prices have increased by over 33%, while in India, shortages of cooking gas are disrupting households and small businesses. In Chad, food prices have surged dramatically, with meat prices doubling and fuel costs also rising sharply. These dynamics are particularly severe in rural areas, where higher transport costs limit farmers’ access to markets and reduce incomes.

Beyond energy, a fertilizer crisis is emerging. Supply disruptions are occurring at a critical moment in the agricultural calendar, forcing farmers to reduce fertilizer use, switch crops, or abandon planting altogether. In many African countries, where agriculture relies heavily on imported inputs, this is expected to lead to lower yields, reduced incomes, and increased food insecurity.

The World Food Programme estimates that up to 45 million additional people could face food insecurity by the end of 2026 if the crisis persists.

SWISSAID emphasizes that these developments reflect deeper systemic issues, including the concentration of global agricultural inputs and reliance on external supply chains. As a response, the organization promotes agroecological approaches that rely on local resources, improve soil health, and reduce dependency on imported fertilizers and pesticides. Such approaches are presented as key to strengthening resilience and fostering more autonomous and sustainable food systems.

The International Horticultural Congress 2026 (IHC2026) will bring together scientists, practitioners, and industry actors from across the horticultural sector to explore the theme “Exploring the Diversity of Horticulture”.

Organised by the International Society for Horticultural Science in collaboration with the Japanese Society for Horticultural Science, the congress provides a global platform for interdisciplinary exchange spanning natural sciences, social sciences, and technological innovation.

The programme will cover a wide range of topics, including crop science, genetics, robotics, sustainable production systems, and global value chains. It aims to connect research with practice, from small-scale local production systems to large-scale international supply chains.

IHC2026 offers a key opportunity for dialogue and knowledge exchange on the role of horticulture in sustainable food systems, human health, and economic development worldwide.

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
Qualifications: PhD in agriculture, environmental sciences, geography, or a related field. Strong research background in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in agriculture, preferably in rice systems. Experience with Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) systems, including GIS and remote sensing applications. Knowledge of low-emission rice practices and field data collection. Proven ability to conduct independent and collaborative research, publish scientific outputs, and engage with governmental and international stakeholders. Experience in capacity building is an asset.

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
Qualifications: PhD in agronomy, agricultural economics, environmental economics, development studies, geography, or related field. At least 3 years of experience in climate change research in agriculture, preferably in developing country contexts. Strong expertise in climate-smart agriculture, GHG emissions accounting, and mitigation/adaptation strategies. Experience with quantitative analysis, value chains, and policy-oriented research. Ability to work in multidisciplinary and international environments, with strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills. Experience in Southeast Asia is desirable; Vietnamese is an asset.