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FAO at 80: the pursuit of better food for all


02/12/2025

A new history of FAO explores 80 years of food and agriculture and the work of the Organization to continue to shape agrifood systems in a changing world.  

Through words and photographs, FAO at 80: the pursuit of better food for all chronicles the Organization's milestones over the course of its mandate, seen against the backdrop of world events and the evolution of food and agriculture more generally. Four sections reflect the Organization’s expanding scope and impact: More (1945–1965), detailing the expansion of agricultural production in the aftermath of WWII; Deeper (1965–1985), looking at the emergence of environmental concerns and more tailored approaches; Broader (1985–2005), characterized by more global and holistic perspectives; and Better (2005–2025), emphasizing innovation and technology as crucial drivers of better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind. 

From the pioneering World Census of Agriculture dating back to 1950, through the founding of the Codex Alimentarius together with the World Health Organization in 1963, to breakthroughs such as the eradication of rinderpest in 2011, and the profound transformation of agrifood systems guided by the four betters, much has been done. There remains much to do and FAO is ready to keep delivering.  

The publication is available in  ArabicChineseEnglishFrenchRussian and Spanish

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