This examination of the future role of food and agriculture in world peace and prosperity presents a regional cross-country view of the Caribbean countries with emphasis on the Caricom English speaking countries within a global food system environment. Following an introductory section, the second of six sections focuses on two broad agricultural objectives, farm structure attitude toward agriculture, traditional crops, food imports and self-sufficiency, consumption patterns, and growing unemployment in the Caribbean region. Section 3, "Structural Adjustment and the Food System," outlines guidelines for future harmonization of policies proposed at a 1984 Conference of Heads of Government. Special attention is given to the promotion of agricultural re-development, agricultural diversification and exports, and the management of production and marketing. Section 4 examines major trends reflecting a movement towards greater market orientation and interdependence. Section 5, which focuses on three major issues to consider in the development of a more equitable world food and agricultural system, concludes that policy makers must: (1) ask themselves who benefits from food and agricultural reforms and how these changes move the system toward access to nutritious food for everyone; (2) "make haste slowly"--starting from the real situation rather than the ideal and determining what is possible; and (3) take a risk sharing attitude by sharing the responsibility of success or failure in future food and agricultural development. The final section calls for world cooperation in food and agricultural development. (LH)