World Food Day: FAO Celebrates 80 Years of Impact, Urges for Enhanced Global Partnerships
On the occasion of World Food Day 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Representative in Iran, Farrukh Toirov, emphasized the organization’s 80-year commitment to enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture. He called for stronger partnerships to achieve these vital goals during a national conference held on October 14 at the Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO).
The theme for this year’s World Food Day, “Hand in Hand, for Better Foods and a Better Future,” highlights the necessity for collective action to safeguard the planet’s essential resources. It particularly stresses the empowerment of those who produce, process, and deliver food, especially rural women, who play crucial roles in household nutrition, food production, and environmental sustainability.
Toirov underscored the critical importance of rural and nomadic women in achieving food security and sustainable agriculture. He stated, “Rural and nomadic women are central to ensuring food security and sustainable livelihoods. Empowering them through access to knowledge, technology, and resources is essential to achieving a food-secure and resilient future.”
He also pointed out that while climate change and drought are significant challenges to food security worldwide, the most severe threat today stems from armed conflicts that disrupt agricultural production and global food supply chains. “FAO has been working for 80 years to improve global food systems and ensure food security for all. Despite global progress, millions of people still face hunger and malnutrition,” Toirov added.
Toirov emphasized that “Our mission is only achievable when all actors, including governments, international organizations, and the private sector, work hand in hand toward a better future.”
In collaboration with Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture Jahad, the FAO continues to support initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s agricultural systems. These initiatives focus on:
- Enhancing the competitiveness of key products such as pistachio, saffron, and date palm in global markets.
- Improving productivity and adapting to climate change.
- Creating opportunities for women farmers and entrepreneurs.
Celebrating 80 years since its founding, Toirov reiterated the FAO’s commitment to collaborating closely with the Islamic Republic of Iran and other member countries. The organization aims to achieve:
- Better production
- Better nutrition
- A better environment
- A better life—leaving no one behind.
The emphasis on women’s empowerment is particularly pertinent in today’s context, where increasing numbers of rural women are stepping into the spotlight as key players in the food production landscape. By ensuring that these women have access to the necessary resources, training, and support, the FAO and its partners can help create a more resilient agricultural sector.
Toirov’s remarks reflect a broader understanding that to combat food insecurity effectively, the global community must prioritize inclusivity and sustainability. It is clear that the path forward requires concerted efforts from all sectors to fortify food systems against the challenges posed by climate change and conflict.
As we observe World Food Day 2025, the call to action is clear: we must work collectively, with a focus on empowering those who are often overlooked in the food supply chain, particularly rural women. By doing so, we can build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
In conclusion, the commitment of the FAO to improving food security and promoting sustainable agriculture is more vital than ever. As we celebrate 80 years of progress, let us remain steadfast in our resolve to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food, and that no one is left behind in this critical endeavor.
