Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 16, 2025 Peace and security
In his message on World Food Day, celebrated on 16 October, 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.
According to the UN chief, despite significant progress achieved over the past eight decades, 673 million people worldwide go to bed hungry. Even more live in insecurity due to food shortages. Progress in the fight against hunger has slowed, and in some regions, progress is being reversed.
Other challenges include rising obesity, climate change, 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 starved en masse," the Secretary-General noted.
The UN chief emphasized that humanity has everything it needs—knowledge, technology, and resources—to end hunger. "We only need one thing: unity," he declared.
In closing his address, the Secretary-General called on the global community to take decisive action: “Let us unite once again to build food systems that feed people and protect the planet.”
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In 2025, they also celebrate 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), established in 1945 to combat hunger and ensure food availability throughout the world.
Global challenges require joint solutions
Modern agricultural and food systems are facing unprecedented challenges. Conflicts, the impacts of extreme climate events, economic shocks, and inequality are undermining access to food and the sustainability of supplies.
“The lands we farm, the water we depend on, and the biodiversity we depend on for life are under increasing pressure,” FAO notes.
While the agri-food sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it can also play a key role in combating climate change by changing the way we produce, store, and distribute food.
FAO emphasizes that achieving food security requires the combined efforts of governments, organizations, the private sector, and civil society. Only by working hand in hand—across borders, sectors, and generations—can humanity transform agricultural and 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 ceremony to mark World Food Day takes place on October 16 at FAO headquarters in Rome, where a new Museum of Food and AgricultureThe museum's interactive exhibition will explore a world where everyone has the right to food, through the language of cuisine, art, science, and innovation. The museum will be available for both in-person and online visitors.
In the afternoon, an international discussion on "The Future of Food: Conversations for a Fairer World" will bring together FAO leaders, chefs, activists, thought leaders, and representatives from other organizations. Participants will discuss how to connect local initiatives with global action to reform food systems.
Particular attention is paid to youth. On October 17, an interactive event for schoolchildren aged 9-14 will take place, featuring young activists, athletes, musicians, and innovators. The program includes discussions about the future of food, creative performances, art projects, and musical numbers.
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