Switzerland is set to participate in the upcoming 43rd Conference of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) from July 1 to 7, 2023. The conference will serve as a platform for discussions on the global food and agriculture landscape, with a focus on managing water resources to enhance food security and drive the transformation of food systems.

During the week-long event in Rome, Switzerland’s delegation will actively contribute to shaping crucial decisions. These decisions aim to bolster the FAO’s organizational effectiveness and global influence, considering the agency’s pivotal role in addressing worldwide food challenges and promoting food security.

Switzerland will highlight the imperative of sustainable development in food systems, emphasizing the significance of integrated, efficient, and sustainable management of water resources within the agricultural sector. Additionally, discussions will revolve around innovative approaches such as agroecology, as well as the importance of aligning national agricultural policies with long-term food security objectives.

The conference will also witness the election of the FAO Director-General for the next four years, along with the selection of new council members and an independent council chairperson.

In parallel, Switzerland welcomes the recent policy recommendations by the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) regarding youth engagement and employment in agriculture and food systems. The country recognizes the need to create an enabling environment that fosters the active participation of young people in these sectors, promoting equitable access to resources, infrastructure, education, and vocational training.

Furthermore, Switzerland takes pride in supporting the modernization of the Swiss Centre for FAO’s Fight against Locusts and Migratory Pests. This initiative aims to contribute to mitigating the food crisis in regions severely affected by such challenges.

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