To mark World Food Day on 16 October 2025, United Nations Volunteers pays tribute to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) through Legacy in Action: 80 years of volunteer impact with FAO.
FAO turns 80—and it’s more than just a milestone. This anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on a long-standing partnership built on shared values and global impact.
QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO, shares, "Since 1971, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and United Nations Volunteers (UNV) have nurtured a deep and impactful partnership grounded in a shared mission: to end hunger, alleviate poverty, and foster sustainable development through volunteerism." He adds:
Over the decades, this collaboration has grown into a dynamic force supporting communities around the world—especially during times of increasing complexity and challenge."
Toily Kurbanov, Executive Coordinator of UNV, pays tribute to FAO’s pioneering role in championing volunteerism—long before it became a global norm. The book, Legacy in Action, is "A chorus of voices: volunteers, mentors, and those who once served and now lead." He adds:
Eighty stories, each a spark. Together, they light up the spirit of a partnership built on trust, purpose, and people. Here’s to growing this legacy—and inspiring new hearts to serve, boldly and with soul."
In 2025 alone, there are 82 UN Volunteers currently serving with FAO in 31 countries.
To access Legacy in Action: 80 years of volunteer impact with FAO, please click the Flip Book and PDF.
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