On 11 and 12 June 2026, the international workshop “Developing Food Policies with Doughnut Economics” took place in Rome. The event was promoted by the Rome Food Council and the American University of Rome, in collaboration with the Doughnut Economics Action Lab (DEAL).
The initiative brought together researchers, public administrators and activists to explore how the Doughnut Economics model can be applied to urban food policies, with the aim of supporting fairer and more sustainable food systems.
On the first day, hosted at the Metropolitan Urban Center, participants took part in theoretical sessions, operational activities and group work focused on adapting the Doughnut model to the local food system. The workshop also included co-creation activities to develop food policy proposals, identify key actors and define advocacy strategies. During the morning session, Kate Raworth, creator of the Doughnut Economics model, joined the event online.
Among the stakeholders involved was also Food Policy Councils in Action, an international network of Food Councils that promotes exchanges and joint initiatives, including international webinars, to engage a broad and multidisciplinary community in reinterpreting the Doughnut model in relation to food systems.
In this context of innovation, the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital (CmRC) actively participated by presenting the European project FOODGaP – Food Governance and Policies at local level, funded by the European Union through the Interreg NEXT MED Programme.
Through its Department for Strategic Planning and Territorial Governance, CmRC presented a descriptive manifesto highlighting the methodological approach of the project, which places communities at the centre of decision-making processes.
Participation in the workshop represented an important opportunity for dialogue with an international network of experts and stakeholders, helping to strengthen the connection between the metropolitan level and local networks working on food policies.
The experience confirmed that applying Doughnut Economics to public policies can represent an innovative approach to integrating human wellbeing, environmental sustainability and the active participation of communities.
From this perspective, FOODGaP confirms its role as an important step in the path undertaken by the Metropolitan City of Rome Capital to promote fairer, more inclusive and more sustainable territorial development models, where food governance can become a strategic lever for territorial transformation.
Sustainability also means building relationships, creating opportunities for participation, and investing in places where people can meet, collaborate and take care of their community.
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