Morocco secures second term on UN food agency council

Sunday 06 July 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco secures second term on UN food agency council

Morocco has been re-elected to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Council, extending its membership until 2029. The decision was announced during the 44th FAO Conference held in Rome from June 28 to July 4.

The North African nation, represented by Ambassador Youssef Balla, Morocco’s permanent delegate to UN agencies in Rome, first joined the council on June 30, 2023. Its initial term was set to end in 2026, but the re-election now guarantees a position until the conclusion of the 46th conference session in 2029.

As one of 12 African countries on the 49-member council, Morocco has played an active role in addressing global food and agricultural challenges. The council acts as the executive body of the FAO, guiding programs and initiatives between the organization’s main conference sessions.

The re-election highlights Morocco’s commitment to food security and sustainable agriculture, particularly in supporting small island developing states, landlocked countries, and lesser-developed nations. The country has been a strong advocate for South-South cooperation, fostering partnerships across Africa to address food insecurity and promote agricultural development.

African member states voted in favor of Morocco’s extended mandate, recognizing its leadership in tackling critical issues like climate change, economic instability, and regional agricultural challenges. The decision underlines growing confidence in Morocco’s ability to contribute to international food policy discussions and initiatives.

This renewed term reinforces Morocco’s influence in global agriculture and food security, positioning it as a key player in shaping policies to address mounting global pressures on food systems.