This article will go over the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), an important food program that aims to end global hunger. Through their efforts to develop agriculture for countries in need, they are a critical resource for helping people and governments solve their food shortages.

Background

The FAO was founded by the United Nations in 1945, and is considered a neutral intergovernmental organization. One of their main functions is to supply information and implement long-lasting agriculture for struggling nations. 

There are currently 194 countries enrolled in the FAO, with two adjacent members — the Food and Agriculture Organization and the European Union. The FAO headquarters is in Rome, Italy, and employs close to 12,000 people.

By improving agriculture, forestry, and fishery practices, the FAO is modernizing the ways in which countries feed themselves. Let’s go over each of their seven departments. 

Agriculture and Consumer Protection Department

Promotes agricultural practices to end poverty while protecting the environment at the same time. A strong emphasis is placed on safe food practices and standards. 

Climate, Biodiversity, Land and Water Department

Focuses on sustainable practices for land, energy, water, soils, and biodiversity resources. 

Corporate Services Department 

Lends administrative and other assistance to the entire FAO organization. 

The Economic and Social Development Department

Promotes economic development through trade and internal production. 

The Forestry and Aquaculture Department 

Specializes in aquaculture and fishing management. 

The Technical Cooperation and Programme Management Department

Responsible for food and agriculture-related emergencies. 

Main Objectives 

The FAO’s stated objectives are to: 

• Eliminate rural poverty
• End food insecurity, hunger, and malnutrition
• Make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more efficient and sustainable
• Promote inclusive and efficient agricultural systems
• Help people respond better to food threats and crises 

FAO Initiatives

The FAO strives to assist its member countries to become self-sustaining in their food production. The goal is to get these countries to become active trade partners with other countries, generating enough revenue from their own agricultural products. 

It’s important to note that the FAO does not specialize in dealing with famines. Instead, they hope to set up sustainable food sources to avoid those kinds of emergencies. 

A Hunger-Free Planet

The Food and Agriculture Organization has big ambitions. Go check out more of their information to learn more. While there is much work to be done in helping countries set up sustainable food production, progress is being made every day. With enough support, their goals can be achieved.