As the Codex Committee on General Principles (CCGP) celebrates its 60th anniversary, we spoke with its Chairperson, Jean-Luc Angot, who has led the Committee since his appointment in 2018. With the 34th session set to convene in Lille, from 2 to 6 of June 2025, we delve into his reflections on guiding this subsidiary body of the Codex Alimentarius Commission, navigating evolving global related challenges, and driving procedural reforms. With a packed agenda and side events on different topics, Jean-Luc shares his vision for a constructive and inclusive session, set against the backdrop of World Food Safety Day.

Cher Jean-Luc, thank you once again for sitting with us. You were appointed Chair of CCGP in 2018 and chaired your first meeting in 2019. What do you recall about that initial experience?

I was very honoured to be appointed Chairperson of CCGP in 2018 and to welcome the delegations in March 2019 in the historic city of Bordeaux. As we now celebrate the 60th anniversary of the CCGP, I look back on that session as a moment that gave new impetus to the Committee, with the initiation of new work of interest to Codex, for the benefit of the international community.

After many years participating in and chairing CCGP, how have you seen the work of the Committee evolve? Or did it change at all?

Since 2019, I have sensed a growing expectation from Members in terms of changes in the procedures and tools available so that Codex can respond to current and future challenges. I thank the Members for their commitment and their constructive and diligent involvement. The world needs Codex, Codex needs CCGP and CCGP needs all Members!

And what new challenges have you had to overcome, or you see ahead?

The challenges ahead of us are numerous. The first one is the reaffirmation of the importance of multilateralism. Global trade needs regulation, and intergovernmental standards exist for this. Food safety and fair trade are major issues in public health and in the economy. Feeding the planet with healthy and safe products is crucial. As we look ahead, we must also address the challenges of the One Health approach.

To remain relevant, Codex must adapt its methods: enhance cooperation with other international organizations, strengthen scientific risk assessment capacities, and better anticipate emerging risks. The update of Codex procedures is a complex process that requires a strong expertise and a deep understanding of how Codex functions. These revisions are crucial not only for modernizing Codex but also for ensuring it meets the evolving needs of its Members. At the same time, it is important that the changes remain aligned with Codex core values and the funding principles of the parent organizations.

Turning now to the agenda for CCGP34, could you highlight the key items and explain their significance for the Codex Alimentarius Commission?

An important item of the agenda to discuss is the review of the Procedural Manual, with the aim of updating it to reflect our current working practices—particularly regarding the roles and responsibilities of host secretariats. We will also examine the sections related to amendments and revisions, in order to bring greater clarity and consistency to our procedures. Lastly, we will look at the functioning of committees working by correspondence, to build on the progress made in recent years thanks to the development of remote communication tools. The Codex Commission gave us these mandates and we must respond to them.

We will also host side events about risk management and innovation – crucial areas for shaping the future of standards-setting. These side events will also resonate with the spirit of World Food Safety Day, by highlighting how innovation and sound risk management are essential tools for strengthening global food safety governance.

What are your aspirations for this session, and how do you plan to chair this meeting?

First of all, I am looking forward to meeting the delegates again or getting to know the new delegates. Beyond the work planned on the agenda, it is also a valuable moment for exchanges and sharing, enrichment and friendship. I will endeavor to chair the meeting in a constructive, inclusive, transparent, consensual and friendly spirit.

I look forward to welcoming you in the beautiful city of Lille and seeing you at the committee!

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CCGP34 meeting page