FAO's Environmental and Social Standards (2015) ensure that FAO projects and programmes conform to sustainability criteria and mitigate potential adverse impacts to achieve expected outcomes. A COVID-19 outbreak in countries already affected by existing shocks, including political instability, conflict and natural disasters, could further exacerbate food insecurity. FAO has therefore proposed additional guidance to prevent and mitigate COVID-19 immediate impacts and support national, regional and local mandates in areas where FAO projects and programmes are in place.