Chapter 2: Social and Local Development

Title: Agro-food markets, networks and movements

Reference: WORLD SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OUTLOOK 2006 pp. 57 - 66

Abstract/Summary: Rural responses to the marginalisation and appropriation consequent on the industrialisation of the agro-food system have ranged from articularistic, aesthetic market niching to more universalist ethical challenges. Advances in both cases pose problems for the small farming sector. On the other hand, recognition and redistribution strategies can be mutually reinforcing. The institutional reforms which have accompanied globalisation have placed the market at the centre of social movement objectives. While presenting risks of exclusion and cooption, the multifaceted character of social movements which include alternative circuits, mainstreaming and political campaigns opens up the perspective for a permanent repositioning both in relation to the market and the content of the values transacted.

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