Food and agriculture organization

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Serving both developed and developing countries, FAO acts as a neutral forum where all nations meet as equals to negotiate agreements and debate policy.

History

The Food and Agriculture Organization was founded in October 1945 with a mandate to raise levels of nutrition and standards of living, to improve agricultural productivity, and to better the condition of rural populations.

Objectives

FAO's mandate is to improve nutrition, increase agricultural productivity, raise the standard of living in rural populations and contribute to global economic growth. Achieving food security for all is at the heart of FAO's efforts – to make sure people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives.

Structure

FAO is composed of seven departments: Agriculture and Consumer Protection; Economic and Social Development; Fisheries and Aquaculture; Forestry; Corporate Services, Human Resources and Finance; Operations and Technical Cooperation; and Technical Cooperation.

Activities

FAO's activities comprise four main areas:

1. Policy advice: FAO provides a neutral forum where all nations meet as equals to negotiate agreements and debate policy.
2. Technical assistance: FAO provides knowledge and technical expertise to developing countries to modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices.
3. Research: FAO conducts research and provides technical assistance to developing countries to improve their agricultural practices and ensure good nutrition.
4. Emergency assistance: FAO provides emergency assistance to help countries prepare for, and respond to, emergencies.

See also

• United Nations
• Agriculture
• Nutrition
• Food security

External links

• Official website

Food and agriculture organization Resources
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