In Memory of Alexander Baranov

Alexander Baranov unexpectedly passed away yesterday at the age of 69. A Slow Food member since 2002, he was also the founder and leader of Slow Food Kovcheg-Moscow Convivium, the first of Slow Food’s local groups in Russia.

For the Slow Food community in Russia, Alexander was an important figure: the founder of a solid network of 20 convivia, 60 Terra Madre communities, and dozens of scientists in all parts of the country who came into contact with Slow Food thanks to his tireless work. Convivium leaders, inspired by his commitment, followed him in his work to bring good, clean and fair food to everyone.

Alexander was Slow Food’s spokesman in the State Duma of the Russian Federation and the Federation Council, in the Security Council, and in the Civic Chamber of the Russian Federation, and on national television and. His numerous interviews and articles on food and genetic safety are known throughout Russia and around the world.

Alexander surrounded himself with people from different regions in Russia who were equally passionate in the struggle for genetic and food safety. He was the founder and president of the National Association for Genetic Safety, and since 2006, a member of the International Commission on the Future of Food and Agriculture, where he contributed to the distribution of its four manifestos throughout the former Soviet Union.

All of Slow Food’s work in Russia would not be possible if not for the foundations built by Alexander, our friend, colleague, and an extraordinary human being.