The 16th FAO/WHO Joint Meeting on Pesticide Management (JMPM) was held from November 6 to 10 of 2023, at the World Health Organization (WHO) headquarters in Geneva. The Secretariat, panel members from both, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and WHO, and observers gathered to discuss the new challenges shaping the future of pesticide regulation on a global scale.

Dr Jérôme Salomon, Assistant Director General for Universal Health Coverage, Communicable and Noncommunicable Diseases at WHO, opened the meeting emphasizing the urgent need to build capacity in sound pesticide management across both agriculture and public health sectors. He acknowledged the important role of JMPM’s work and its significant contribution developing guidance in navigating the complexities of pesticides management.

The meeting agenda covered a spectrum of key items, including a summary of developments and actions taken post the 15th JMPM in 2022. Moreover, ongoing development of new guidance documents, and the revision of existing guidelines. Discussions also involved addressing emerging and priority issues in pesticide management, including online sale, drone application, illegal trade, nano-pesticides, and recommendations made for future directions.

A significant highlight of the 16th meeting was the extensive dialogue on the incorporation of a human rights–based approach, mainstreaming gender considerations, and giving special attention to Indigenous Peoples' Rights and perspectives in the work of JMPM.  The revision of the International Code of Conduct on Pesticide Management "The Code of Conduct", was discussed accordingly.

The joint program on pesticide management, established in 2007 between FAO and WHO, continues to play a crucial role in developing unified policies, guidance, and practices for Member States and other stakeholders. The primary aim is to manage pesticides effectively while minimizing associated human and environmental risks, underlining a commitment to sustainable and responsible pesticide management practices worldwide.

In addition to the forthcoming report, all publications from the JMPM, including new guidance documents, can be accessed here.