Keynote address by Chair of the Commission on Genetic Resources at the Second Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights

At the opening of the Second Global Symposium on Farmers’ Rights, hosted by the Government of the Philippines from 16 to 19 September 2025 in Manila, Ms. Paz J. Benavidez II, Chair of the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, emphasized the historic and ongoing role of farmers in conserving global biodiversity.

She highlighted that “Farmers’ Rights are yet to be fully realized in most regions and countries” adding that “to truly honour the contributions of Indigenous Peoples, local communities and smallholder farmers to the conservation and development of genetic resources, we must not ignore the contributions that they have made. We will continue to make important contributions to the conservation, improvement and sustainable management of genetic diversity for food and agriculture, be they plant, forest, aquatic animal, microbial or invertebrate genetic resources.”

The Second Global Symposium was an important international event that brought together key stakeholders – including representatives of farmers’ organizations, Indigenous Peoples, policymakers, scientists, researchers and practitioners – to advance the cause of Farmers’ Rights under the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.

It also provided a crucial platform for knowledge exchange and partnership-building to empower farmers worldwide and ensure their rights are upheld. Ms Benavidez II closed with a call to action: “Let us seize this moment to amplify farmers’ voices, translate our shared commitments into concrete actions, and cultivate a future of food security for all.” 

To read Ms Benavidez II's full speech click here.