16th October 2025
World Food Day, celebrated on 16 October every year, marks the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 1945. It is one of the most celebrated days on the UN calendar, observed in more than 150 countries. In 2025, it carries the inspiring theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”
The day is not just about raising awareness – it is a powerful call for action. World Food Day shines a light on the urgent need to transform global food systems to ensure healthy diets, fight hunger and malnutrition, and protect our planet. It highlights the fact that everyone has a role to play – from governments and businesses to farmers, schools, youth, and individual citizens.
Flagship World Food Day Events in Rome
The flagship celebrations take place in Rome, where FAO is headquartered. During World Food Week 2025, Rome becomes a hub of global dialogue and cultural exchange.
Highlights include:
- The Official World Food Day Ceremony at FAO Headquarters, where world leaders, UN agencies, and partners share commitments to fight hunger.
- Cultural events and exhibitions, celebrating the diversity of global food traditions.
- The inauguration of the Food and Agriculture Museum and Network, opening its doors to showcase 80 years of progress in food and agriculture.
- High-level panels and dialogues, tackling urgent issues such as food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, and innovation.
FAO80: 80 Years of Progress
In 2025, World Food Day is especially significant as it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the FAO. Founded in 1945, FAO has led international efforts to end hunger and improve nutrition. The FAO80 campaign will be celebrated around the globe, with events that highlight both achievements and future challenges.
FAO80 will feature:
- Exhibitions that trace FAO’s journey and achievements since its founding.
- Community events worldwide, connecting local actions to global goals.
- The launch of the Food and Agriculture Museum and Network in Rome, a permanent space for education and innovation.
- Global engagement through schools, youth programs, and grassroots initiatives, ensuring the next generation is part of the change.
Food Heroes: Inspiring Everyday Change
At the heart of World Food Day 2025 are the Food Heroes – everyday people who are transforming food systems. From smallholder farmers adopting climate-smart practices to educators teaching sustainable nutrition, these heroes remind us that change begins locally.
Their stories are showcased in the campaign to inspire citizens around the world. By reducing food waste, supporting local producers, or advocating for fairer systems, everyone can become a Food Hero.
Why World Food Day 2025 Matters
World Food Day is not a one-day celebration – it is a reminder that hunger, malnutrition, and unsustainable food systems are urgent global public health and development problems. With climate change, economic inequalities, and conflicts threatening food security, collective action is more important than ever.
The theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future” emphasizes partnership. By working together – across borders, sectors, and generations – we can achieve the vision of a food-secure world.
For more information and detailed program visit the website.
Published in GI-Mail 10/2025 (English edition).
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