Rome-based UN agencies—the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Food Programme (WFP)—marked International Women’s Day 2026 with a joint event focused on strengthening women farmers’ access to justice, rights, and economic opportunities. The celebration highlighted the critical role women play in agrifood systems worldwide and emphasized the importance of removing barriers that limit their participation, particularly in the context of the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026.
FAO Director-General QU Dongyu highlighted that women farmers are central to feeding the world, contributing to food security, rural development, and resilient agrifood systems, even while often working under difficult conditions without full recognition. Gérardine Mukeshimana, Vice-President of IFAD, noted that equal access for women in agrifood systems increases productivity, incomes, and rural economic activity. WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain emphasized that investing in women’s leadership and access to resources strengthens communities and helps combat hunger globally.
The event, held at FAO Headquarters and livestreamed worldwide, brought together government representatives, women farmers, and practitioners to discuss the persistent barriers women face in agrifood systems, including limited access to land, finance, services, information, and social protection. High-level panelists explored policy and governance measures necessary to secure women’s rights and expand access to justice and essential services.
Representatives from farmers’ organizations and community groups, including Coldiretti Fondazione Campagna Amica (Italy), SEWA (India), FADEMUR (Spain), LOFEPACO (Democratic Republic of the Congo), and the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce (Egypt), shared practical examples of programs and networks that strengthen women’s legal awareness, economic opportunities, and leadership roles in local agrifood initiatives.
The celebration also included an exhibition at the FAO Food and Agriculture Museum (FAO MuNE), showcasing women farmers’ contributions to nutrition, biodiversity, and local value chains, alongside a live cooking demonstration of traditional recipes. IFAD highlighted women agripreneurs through a photo exhibition reflecting the impact of its financed projects. In addition, a commemorative 5-euro silver coin from Italy’s State Mint was presented, celebrating women’s roles across agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and forestry.
The event concluded with FAO, IFAD, and WFP reaffirming the need for sustained, coordinated action to enhance women farmers’ rights, resources, and opportunities. Leadership for the next annual International Women’s Day event was formally handed to IFAD, which will host the 2027 edition. The agencies will continue collaborating with Members, partners, and farmers’ organizations to implement practical solutions that expand women’s access to justice, resources, and leadership in agrifood systems.
