Somali refugee camp in Ethiopia. UN Secretary-General calls for global unity in the fight against hunger Peace and Security
In his message on the occasion of World Food Day, which is celebrated on October 16, the UN Secretary-General called for international solidarity in the fight against hunger and strengthening food security.
This year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Nutrition and a Better Future,” reflects the need for collaborative efforts at all levels, from governments to local communities.
Despite significant progress made over the past eight decades, 673 million people around the world today go to bed hungry, the UN chief said. Even more people live in conditions of uncertainty about the future due to food shortages. Progress against hunger has slowed, and some regions are experiencing setbacks.
Other challenges include rising obesity, climate shocks and the use of hunger as a weapon in armed conflict. “It is a shameful and horrifying reality that in times of war, people are being starved en masse,” said the Secretary-General.
The UN chief stressed that humanity has everything it needs – knowledge, technology and resources – to end hunger. “We need only one thing – unity,” he said.
The Secretary-General concluded his speech by calling on the global community to take decisive action: “Let us come together again to build food systems that feed people and protect the planet.”
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2025 also marks the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established in 1945 to fight hunger and ensure access to food throughout the world world.
Global challenges require collaborative solutions
Modern agri-food systems face unprecedented challenges. Conflict, extreme climate events, economic shocks and inequality undermine food access and sustainability of supplies.
“The lands we farm, the waters we depend on and the biodiversity we rely on are under increasing pressure,” FAO notes.
In addition, the agri-food sector is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, but it can also play a key role in the fight against climate change if we change the way we produce, store and distribute food.
FAO emphasizes that achieving food security requires the joint efforts of governments, organizations, the private sector and civil communities. Only by working hand in hand – across borders, industries and generations – can humanity transform agri-food systems so that everyone has access to healthy food and can live in harmony with nature.
Events in Rome and around the world
Home The World Food Day ceremony takes place on 16 October at FAO headquarters in Rome, where the new Museum of Food and Agriculture will also open. The museum’s interactive exhibition will tell the story of a world in which everyone has the right to food, through the language of cooking, art, science and innovation. The museum will be open to both in-person and online visitors.
The afternoon will feature an international panel discussion on “The Future of Food: A Conversation for Building a Fairer World,” featuring FAO leaders, chefs, activists, thought leaders and other organizations. Participants will discuss how to connect local initiatives with global action to reform food systems.
With a special focus on youth. On October 17, an interactive event will be held for schoolchildren aged 9–14 with the participation of young activists, athletes, musicians and innovators. The program includes discussions about the future of food, creative performances, art projects and musical performances.