Measuring Impact, Growing a Global Movement, Bringing Positive Change

What weight do we have in bringing change on?

Slow Food and Catalys collaborated to measure the impact of the grassroot network. A survey addressed to local groups active on all five continents was used, and it is interesting to notice that the group which was most strongly represented was Africa.

The majority of the groups that filled out the survey (84%) are multi-stakeholder, most of them including producers, consumers and at least one of food companies and/or public institutions. This helps to give the groups strength through diversity and ensure a range of perspectives from different parts of the food system are available to nearly all groups.

The fact that most Slow Food groups are diverse, including producers, consumers and other food chain/system actors means that these groups are naturally positive environments for dialogue, as a range of different perspectives is “baked into” their structure.

A Growing Movement Rooted in Connections

In Africa, the movement is reaching communities that until recently were far from this network. The Slow Food community in Africa is rapidly flourishing. From Senegal to Kenya, our groups have formed local alliances, spreading sustainable farming methods and are celebrating local products. Every story, every project and every new connection fuels the dream of a more self-sufficient Africa, where food is not only nourishment but also power and dignity.

Rediscovering Tradition, Cultivating Innovation

In Europe, where the movement has its roots, the momentum towards a more mindful food culture keeps growing. In France, Spain, and all the way to Turkey, we are seeing a revival of ancient culinary traditions and a synergy between producers and consumers. Farmers’ markets and cooking workshops are helping entire communities reconnect with the land and appreciate the richness of local produce. With every event, we put our “good, clean, and fair” ideals into practice.

Seeds of Change and Independence

In Asia, the movement is putting down deep roots. In Indonesia, we have launched awareness projects to teach farmers about using native seeds, showing them how to produce seeds independently. This initiative is bringing greater economic independence to families and supporting local biodiversity. Here, every seed we plant is a step toward a more independent and resilient agriculture.

Slow Food is globalising….in a good way

The impact survey evidences a network that has growing numbers of active and well-established groups worldwide. The organisation has recognised to broaden its geographic coverage, acknowledging that the Slow Food message is one that has wide appeal and relevance across national boundaries.