Why Change

As rural communities across the developing world feel the threat of climate change, sky rocketing food prices, and energy crises, CGIAR knowledge and technologies have never been more critical.

Growth in middle income countries is increasing food demand, while natural resources are over stressed and readily available arable land which could support increased food production is increasingly hard to find.

Meanwhile, the world of agricultural research has shifted dramatically. With the rapid growth of the national agricultural systems in Brazil, China, India and South Africa, the space that international research centers occupy has altered. Some national institutions challenge the ability of the CGIAR to partner equitably or meet their needs. The entry of strong new actors into the field of agricultural research is further challenging the role of the CGIAR as a major player in the world of international agricultural research.

The CGIAR may no longer be perceived as the critical provider of solutions for agricultural productivity, natural resource management or policy advice. As a result, CGIAR Center funding is not increasing in proportion to client needs.

If these trends continue, and the CGIAR does not adapt, the CGIAR will rapidly become irrelevant.

In 2008 the CGIAR launched a major Change Initiative to meet these challenges. The Initiative culminated in the adoption of the model for a Revitalized CGIAR. The model will be implemented through 2009, with the New CGIAR expected to be fully operational in 2010.