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FAO Reform: Looking forward

Year of publication 2013

Product type Book (stand-alone)

Edition 1

Synopsis (short abstract) The reform process has brought to light a number of valuable lessons to be considered in the future of FAO. We have learnt that effective direction setting and long-term strategies are best agreed upon by participatory discussion, based on sincere and open dialogue. We have learnt the value of flexibility and that in an organization with over 190 Members, finding “one size fits all” solutions to problems is not possible, because the best solution to a problem in one location or in one stage of development might be a straightjacket in another setting. We have learnt that the best solution is often to be found by choosing the best available alternative for each particular case and that flexibility at all levels of priority setting, planning and implementation is a key factor of success. We have seen the great contribution of Member State Representatives in building a better FAO. We have learnt the importance of differentiating between leadership and management, with Governing Bodies providing clear direction at a macro level to be then implemented by the Director-General, who is accountable to the Governing Bodies. However, we also know that this is just a first step into making FAO relevant again, and that our achievements are still in its infancy. We need to nurture them and make them an integral part of our Organization so that they can bear all their fruits. Transformational change is doing just that by institution al strengthening of the Organization at Headquarters and the field, so that FAO truly becomes a knowledge Organization with its feet on the ground; by constantly pursuing greater efficiency and best value for money; and by sharpening the focus of its work around a small set of crosscutting objectives that clearly show what the Organization expects to achieve and how it will do that, making the best use of its comparative advantages and core functions and working with partners within and outside of the UN System. This transformational change is made possible by the renewed trust among Members and Secretariat and it helps to strengthen this trust. This is allowing the Organization to take a bold agenda forward, an agenda that seeks the eradication of hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition.

Language English

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