How to improve the coherence of EU trade-related policies regarding the UN Sustainable Development Goals?

Abstract

In view of the EU ’ s sustainability goals, policy coherence aims to reduce contradictions, enhance synergies and boost the effectiveness of actions across various policy areas to achieve the goals set and deliver aligned, sustainable outcomes. Two EU projects provide evidence on how to improve coherence between the EU policies involved in international agricultural tradeand in promoting sustainability objectives. Three main issues are identified: coherence limitations within the Farm-to-Fork (F2F)strategy, inconsistencies between governance levels (EU, Member State, regional/local),and insufficient dynamics in EU policy processes. A systemic approach to agriculture is needed that considers the whole interconnected system rather than isolated parts. The first version of F2F focused heavily on the supply side (i.e. farmers and food producers), while neglecting the demand side (i.e. consumers, markets, and structural incentives to shift consumption). A ‘F2F 2.0’ is needed to balance supply and demand side policies. Environmental goals currently take precedence over social and economic sustainability aspects. Enhancing policy coherence is needed via a long-term commitment, alongside clear expectations and robust policy making skills. The incorporation of sustainability indicators and proofing is essential for translating sustainability commitments into concrete and coherent policies. Policy coherence is not just a technical exercise – it is a challenge that demands political will, strategic capacity and institutional innovation.