Climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental pollution and water scarcity are critical current challenges threatening agrifood sustainability, natural resources and human well-being, especially among the most vulnerable groups, throughout the region.
FAO’s eightieth anniversary provides a platform for engaging in dialogue, acknowledging progress and exploring innovative solutions that will shape the future of agrifood systems. Reflecting on how we cultivate, produce and consume food is the first step in realizing that our agricultural practices and food choices have profound impacts on health – our own and the planet’s.
FAO80 Viorel Gutu
“A sustainable world is one where everyone counts. Each of us can take action to create a better future for all, and 2025 offers a unique chance to gear up. Let’s make FAO’s eightieth anniversary an unforgettable year through collective action.
I am counting on you. Be the protagonist and plant the seeds of change towards a sustainable future for all.”
Viorel Gutu
FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative
Messages for FAO80: A shared vision for sustainable agrifood systems
Historic images from the region
Eighty years of FAO support to Europe and Central Asia
29/09/2025
On 16 October 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) celebrates 80 years of commitment to addressing global challenges...
World Food Day
World Food Day (16 October) marks the founding of FAO in 1945, and this year, the Organization turns 80. Former Hungarian Permanent Representative to FAO Peter Vandor tells the story of how the idea of establishing World Food Day emerged in 1979.
Recognizing young farmers from Europe and Central Asia
Youth are a driving force for more sustainable agrifood systems. As we celebrate the Organization’s 80-year history, and in line with the United Nations Decade of Family Farming 2019–2028, FAO has launched the Mark of Recognition of Young Farmers in Europe and Central Asia as a dedicated effort to spotlight the ingenuity, leadership and positive impact of the young farmers shaping the present and future of food and agriculture across the diverse Europe and Central Asia region.
The initiative goes beyond simply acknowledging their work and commitment to food production; it seeks to celebrate their outstanding contributions to the critical pillars of sustainable agriculture, rural economies, community development, innovation and the overall transformation of agrifood systems to become more resilient, efficient and equitable.
See the full description here.
Additional resources
FAO’s eightieth anniversary
Video playlist: FAO’s eightieth anniversary
Mark of Recognition of Young Farmers in Europe and Central Asia