In 2007 a broad coalition of diverse groups united in support of reforming the current agricultural subsidy system in the context of the Farm Bill reauthorization. IGD’s objective was to advance the cause of a more open trading system and reform U.S. commodity programs to minimize the harm caused to farmers in developing countries. IGD joined with many other organizations in support of the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment offered on the House floor and similar reform efforts in the Senate. In addition, IGD partners placed op-eds in regional newspapers, pointing to the negative impact U.S. subsidies have had on developing countries’ farmers and how the current policy undermines U.S. leadership in global trade negotiations.

While these efforts did not achieve the legislative change we sought, they clearly elevated the public debate on these issues and helped set the stage for future reform.

IGD actions

December 11, 2007
Letter to senators signed by IGD partners urging support for key reform

November 7, 2007
Op-ed by IGD Leadership Council member Michael Gerson in the Washington Post

November 5, 2007
Statement of the Initiative for Global Development in Support of Real Reform during Senate Farm Bill Debate

July 25, 2007
Statement of the Initiative for Global Development in Support of the Fairness in Farm and Food Policy Amendment

July 15, 2007
Op-ed by IGD partner Alice Waters in the Sacramento Bee

June 12, 2007
Op-ed by IGD partner (now Board member) Tim Solso in the Indianapolis Star