Morocco re-elected to FAO council, pledges continued support for global south cooperation
By Abbas Nazil
Morocco has secured a second consecutive term on the Council of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), reaffirming its growing leadership in global food security and sustainable agricultural development.
The re-election, which extends Morocco’s mandate through 2029, was confirmed during the 44th session of the FAO Conference held in Rome from June 28 to July 4.
The North African nation will continue to be represented on the council by Ambassador Youssef Balla, its permanent representative to the UN agencies in Rome.
Morocco’s reappointment was endorsed by African member-states who recognized its active role in promoting food security, supporting vulnerable countries, and advancing South-South cooperation initiatives across the continent.
Originally elected to the council on June 30, 2023, Morocco’s current term was set to end in 2026.
With this latest vote of confidence, Morocco will now serve on the executive council until the conclusion of the FAO’s 46th session in 2029.
The council, which comprises 49 members, plays a critical role in guiding FAO policy and overseeing operations between full conference sessions.
Morocco is one of 12 African countries currently holding seats on the council.
Morocco’s re-election signals increased international recognition of its efforts to address the challenges of hunger, climate change, and economic instability that disproportionately affect developing nations.
In particular, its commitment to partnering with small island developing states, least-developed countries, and landlocked developing nations through South-South cooperation has been central to its platform.
South-South cooperation, which emphasizes mutual support among developing countries, has become an important framework within the FAO for addressing shared challenges.
Morocco’s initiatives have focused on knowledge exchange, agricultural technology transfer, capacity building, and market development to help these nations improve food production and resilience.
The renewed mandate comes at a time when global food systems are under significant strain from multiple fronts—including the impacts of climate change, geopolitical conflicts, disrupted supply chains, and economic shocks.
In this context, Morocco’s voice on the FAO Council is seen as vital for championing inclusive agricultural policies and building stronger partnerships across the Global South.
With a proven track record of engagement since joining the council, Morocco’s continued presence is expected to support the FAO’s strategic goals and contribute to crafting effective, scalable solutions for food and nutrition security.
The country’s re-election not only reflects regional trust but also positions the country as an influential player in shaping the global discourse on sustainable agriculture and development.
