Farmers./PHOTO; Pexel
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has launched the Villages Recognition Initiative, a program highlighting the vital role of rural communities in advancing sustainable agrifood systems, conserving biodiversity, preserving food traditions, and fostering inclusive rural development.
Developed under FAO MuNe (the Food and Agriculture Museum and Network), the initiative is championed by FAO Director-General QU Dongyu as part of the Organization’s 80th Anniversary celebrations.
Its goal is to recognize villages that demonstrate resilience, innovation, and cultural heritage while linking traditional knowledge with modern solutions to sustain local agrifood systems and preserve agricultural practices.
The program emphasizes exchange and mutual learning, promoting global visibility for community-driven approaches and integrating recognized villages into the FAO MuNe Network.
“Rural communities are at the very core of global agrifood systems transformation. They are the guardians of traditional knowledge, stewards of biodiversity, and innovators who ensure that our food systems are resilient, inclusive, and sustainable,” said Director-General Qu.
The initiative honors the contributions of rural women, men, and youth, including small-scale producers, fishers, foresters, pastoralists, and Indigenous Peoples, who safeguard traditions, protect natural resources, and drive innovation in their communities.
Villages are nominated by FAO Members and the Organization itself, ensuring an inclusive recognition process that celebrates impact rather than competition.
Nomination Categories
Nominations fall under four categories reflecting the diversity of rural life:
Natural Villages – Villages that conserve natural heritage and biodiversity, including traditional and indigenous knowledge practices.
Traditional Food Cultures – Villages that preserve distinctive food traditions, cultural practices, and knowledge systems.
Agritourist Experiences – Villages linking agriculture and food development with cultural, educational, or tourism activities.
Science, Innovation, and Digital Villages – Villages applying scientific, technological, or digital solutions for rural development while maintaining local identity.
So far, the initiative has received over 300 nominations from 69 countries, showcasing the richness and diversity of rural communities worldwide.
Recognition and Benefits
The initiative focuses on appreciation and visibility, rather than competition. Assessments showcase each village’s unique contributions. Recognized villages will receive:
- A digital Certificate of Recognition endorsed by the FAO Director-General
- Official acknowledgment during dedicated FAO sessions
- Inclusion in the FAO MuNe Network
- Visibility on the MuNe digital platform for global knowledge exchange
“Through this initiative, we aim to give global recognition to the people and communities who work tirelessly to protect our food systems, nurture biodiversity, and innovate within their local environments. By sharing their successes, we inspire others and strengthen the link between traditional knowledge and modern solutions.” Director-General Qu added.
The Villages Recognition Initiative celebrates rural communities, highlights innovative and traditional practices, and fosters knowledge exchange across regions.
The program reinforces FAO’s vision of Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life – leaving no one behind.
For more information and to participate, villages and stakeholders can visit the FAO MuNe digital platform.
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