Representatives from the scientific and academic sector in Latin America and the Caribbean participated in the Regional Preparatory Consultation for the 39th Session of the FAO Regional Conference (LARC 39), a forum organized by FAO to gather technical and strategic inputs for regional food and agriculture priorities. The virtual meeting brought together universities, research centers, academic networks, and experts to review progress since the 38th Regional Conference and to formulate recommendations for the upcoming biennium, aligned with FAO’s goals of improving production, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and quality of life.
The consultation was opened by FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative René Orellana Halkyer, who emphasized the importance of linking scientific research, public policy, and practical solutions to address regional challenges. He noted that strategic partnerships with the scientific and academic sector are essential, as they provide evidence, applied research, and technological innovations that inform effective policymaking. FAO serves as a bridge between science and implementation, supporting data analysis, innovation, and actionable development strategies across the region.
Participants highlighted the crucial role of the scientific and academic sector in generating evidence, knowledge, and innovation to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems. Emphasis was placed on creating more sustainable, resilient, efficient, and inclusive systems in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. The consultation also laid the groundwork for drafting the Scientific and Academic Sector Declaration, which will be presented to FAO Member States during LARC 39, and for selecting spokespersons to represent the sector at the Regional Conference.
Key outcomes from the meeting include the development of a systematization document capturing dialogue between FAO and the scientific and academic sector, a technical recommendations report for the next biennium, and a finalized list of sector spokesperson nominations. LARC 39 is scheduled to take place from 2 to 6 March 2026 in Brasília, Brazil, where ministers and high-level authorities will define regional priorities for the next two years, incorporating contributions from non-governmental stakeholders including the scientific and academic sector.
