Synopsis (short abstract)The FAO Goodwill Ambassador Programme is dedicated to promoting FAO’s vision of a world without hunger. The FAO Goodwill Ambassadors, distinguished men and women of talent and passion, have expressed their desire to help focus global attention on the noble aims of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: a world free from hunger. Since the launching of the Programme in 1999, these nominations were intended to recognize the importance of the role played by priv ate individuals in promoting food security and to convey the message that working for food security is not solely the province of government. Progress also hinges on the willingness of individual citizens to use their gifts to inspire good will and to generate political will. By their talents and influence, the FAO Goodwill Ambassadors are drawing people from all walks of life into the fight against hunger and poverty, especially at a time when the soaring of food prices is giving rise to a global food crisis. I call upon all people to play a part, together with the FAO Goodwill Ambassadors, in helping the least privileged of the world to finally break free of the vicious circle of chronic hunger and malnutrition.