By Liliana Mosca, SI Representative to the United Nations Office in Rome
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) marked World Food Day and its 80th anniversary with a major event in Rome, reaffirming its enduring mission to end hunger and build resilient agri-food systems worldwide.
The event brought together an exceptional gathering of dignitaries, including Pope Leo XIV, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, King Letsie III of Lesotho, Queen Letizia of Spain, President Yamandú Orsi Martínez of Uruguay, and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. Current UN Secretary-General António Guterres sent a video message condemning the use of hunger as a weapon of war.
This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future,” called for renewed global collaboration. In his opening speech, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu stressed that “the right to food is a fundamental human right, and peace is an essential condition for food security.” Pope Leo XIV echoed this message, describing the theme as “a resolute call to action” at a time marked by division.
As part of the celebrations, Poste Italiane and Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy unveiled a commemorative stamp marking FAO’s 80th anniversary and its long-standing partnership with Italy.
The high-level event, “Food Futures: Conversations for a Better World,” was organised around FAO’s strategic framework — the “Four Betters”: Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment, and Better Life.
Celebrations began with the inauguration of the Museum and Network for Food and Agriculture (FAO MuNe), led by the FAO Director-General alongside Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The museum explores the relationship between food, agriculture, and humanity through interactive, educational exhibits designed to inspire global action.
Watch the UN Secretary General’s message on World Food Day 2025
Watch more from MuNe: Food and Agriculture Museum & Network
