FAOs

FAOs generally refers to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations that coordinates international efforts to defeat hunger. While FAO is the standard singular form, FAOs may appear in texts that refer to multiple FAO offices, programs, or the organization in a broader or informal sense. The FAO is headquartered in Rome, Italy, and operates as a key UN entity addressing global food and agricultural issues.

Established in 1945 in the aftermath of World War II, the FAO’s mandate covers food security, nutrition, sustainable agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and rural development. Its work aims to raise levels of nutrition, improve agricultural productivity, enhance the resilience of livelihoods, and reduce poverty through rural growth and sustainable practices. The organization seeks to promote evidence-based policies, share knowledge, and support countries in implementing long-term solutions for food systems.

Governance and structure include the Conference of Member Nations, the FAO Council, and the Director-General who leads the organization. The FAO operates through regional and subregional offices and a network of decentralized offices that provide country-level support and field projects. It collaborates with governments, civil society, research institutions, and the private sector.

Key activities encompass policy advice, technical assistance, data collection and analysis (notably through the FAOSTAT database), capacity building, and emergency response to food crises. Notable outputs include the annual State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World reports and the Global Forest Resources Assessment. Funding comes from assessed contributions, voluntary contributions, and partnerships with member states and donors.