Societal & Cultural Knowledge

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. It was established on 16 October 1945. In 1951, its headquarters were moved from Washington, D.C., United States, to Rome, Italy. Serving both developed and developing countries, FAO acts as a neutral forum where all nations meet as equals to negotiate agreements and debate policy. The organization's Regular Program budget is funded by its members, through contributions set at the FAO Conference.

FAO is also a source of knowledge and information, and helps developing countries and countries in transition modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices, ensuring good nutrition and food security for all. Its Latin motto, fiat panis, translates into English as "let there be bread".