Implementing the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources
Animal genetic resources for food and agriculture (AnGR) provide crucial options for the sustainable development of livestock production. The erosion of these resources globally, and particularly in many developing countries, has accelerated in recent years as a consequence of the rapid changes affecting livestock production systems (intensification and industrialization) as they respond to surging global demand for animal products. Disease outbreaks, other disasters and emergencies (armed conflicts, droughts, etc) and the degradation of grazing land are also threats.
FAO’s work in the field of AnGR management takes a broad approach – addressing technical, policy and institutional issues, and taking account of interactions with other aspects of natural resource management, production system dynamics and general economic development.
The State of the World’s Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture identified significant gaps in capacity to manage AnGR, particularly in developing countries. In response, the international community adopted the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources (GPA) at the International Technical Conference on Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in September 2007. The GPA was later endorsed by the 34th FAO Conference. It includes 23 strategic priorities for action grouped into four priority areas: characterization and monitoring; sustainable use and development; conservation; and policies, institutions and capacity-building.
FAO supports the implementation of the GPA by facilitating global and regional collaboration and networks, supporting the convening of intergovernmental meetings, maintaining and developing the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) , mobilizing donor resources for AnGR, developing communication products, and coordinating the preparation of global status and trends reports. FAO is also developing a set of technical guidelines, and provides technical assistance and training to support capacity-building and action at country level. The Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture oversees, monitors and evaluates the implementation of the GPA.
Abstracts first published in CBD Technical Series No. 34 (PDF)