Interview with FFOA President Edward Seidler

For today's interview, we speak to Edward Seidler, President of the Former Food and Agriculture Organization and Other United Nations Staff Association (FFOA).




Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected FFOA’s operations? What measures have been taken to overcome constraints?

FFOA's membership is global and represents the interests of approximately 1700 United Nations (UN) retirees in Italy and approximately 500 members throughout the world. One of FFOA's prime responsibilities is to keep members informed of issues affecting them in retirement, such as their medical coverage and pension benefits. Our members in Italy also rely on FFOA to stay informed about developments in the Rome-based Agencies, especially now that Italy is fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and all Headquarters have adopted regulations that limit access of staff and retirees to premises. Government lockdown restrictions are also explained to members, in particular to those with a limited command of Italian. 

FFOA has had to adopt a new ‘modus operandi’ to support its members and maintain contacts, as offices can no longer be accessed physically. In addition to publishing its quarterly Newsbrief, FFOA has increased its publication of ad hoc email NewsFlashes, informing members in a timely manner about changes that directly affect them. FFOA has recognised that it must explore new means of direct communication, and has embarked on introducing virtual Zoom meetings. Training sessions have been held to support members in using virtual technology, and substantive sessions on topics like medical insurance are being planned. FFOA monitors its email account and phone lines to respond to members' enquiries in a timely manner. FAO has supported FFOA to maintain and expand communication links with members.

How can FAO and UN pensioners be better represented in the UN system?

The UN and its agencies are cognisant of their responsibilities to retirees who have faithfully served for many years –in many cases for over 30. Most agencies have a retiree association that is consulted on issues like after-service medical insurance and pension benefits. The Federation of Associations of Former International Civil Servants brings together over 50 retiree associations from across the world and provides a framework for their activities. The United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund is a subsidiary organ of the UN General Assembly and provides retirement, death, disability and related benefits for staff upon cessation of their services. The interests and concerns of retirees can only be safeguarded and pursued, if they become members of retiree associations.