Global Agricultural Value Chains and Prospects for a Just Transition in the Global South.

Public keynote lecture by Prof. Dr. Praveen Jha from Jawaharlal Nehru University (India).

In an increasingly globalized world, agriculture can only be understood in relation to its embedding in a global economy. For decades now, observers and researchers have assessed the impact of agriculture’s economic integration into global value chains in different ways: While some see potential for social advancement, as well as leverage points for labor unions and grassroots organizations to advocate for more sustainable agricultural policies, others highlight the perpetuation of structural inequalities, environmental degradation, and precarious livelihoods. This presentation critically examines the interplay between global production networks (GPNs) and the imperative for a just transition. Drawing on examples from the Global South, the analysis highlights how smallholder farmers, rural communities, and informal laborers are both marginalized by existing production regimes and positioned as key actors in reimagining more sustainable and inclusive futures. Ultimately, sustainability in agriculture cannot be achieved without addressing the power asymmetries embedded in global value chains.

The presentation is part of the “Global Production Network LAB.” This is a two-day workshop held as part of the English-language master’s seminar “Decent Work in Global Value Chains” in the Labor Policies and Globalization (LPG) program. Students present case study analyses developed through group work, which are then discussed with union partners and other experts. Anyone interested can contact Prof. Dr. Anne Lisa Carstensen for more information.

We look forward to a lively and interesting discussion and a fruitful exchange.