Yesterday, at FAO headquarters in Rome, the Organization launched two new reports, showcasing impact created around the world thanks to FAO’s collaboration with two remarkable partners: Belgium and Sweden. The reports were introduced during a side event of the 160th session of the FAO Council, shedding light on the long-standing, wide-ranging and solid partnership between the Organization and the two countries.

The event, which featured interventions by the Permanent Representatives of Belgium, Sweden, Bolivia and Nigeria to FAO, also provided a platform to highlight the importance of multilateralism and flexible funding. “The interconnected nature of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) makes clear the need for integrated approaches to development, expanded partnerships, innovation and financial predictability to achieve long-term development. It also encourages cross-sectoral responses and requires the aid community to break sectoral silos.” noted Daniel Gustafson, FAO’s Deputy Director General (Programmes) during the event.

Sweden and Belgium are global leaders in the aid effectiveness agenda and firm supporters of innovative and flexible funding. FAO’s partnership with the two countries is an exceptional example of how we can efficiently work together to support the achievement of the SDGs at the national, regional and global levels.

Flexible, “un-earmarked”, funding allows the Organization to reduce transaction costs, develop innovative and cross-sectorial approaches, bigger and more impactful projects, and to respond faster and earlier to emergencies. By supporting FAO’s work across all its Strategic Programmes, including through FAO’s Regular Programme budget, the Multipartner Programme Support Mechanism (FMM), the Special Fund for Emergency Activities (SFERA) and other innovative and multi-year funding facilities, Belgium and Sweden are helping the Organization work towards its goals in the most efficient and effective manner.

Download the reports here:
- FAO + Belgium. Inclusive approaches to end hunger and promote prosperity
- FAO + Sweden. A report on partnership