Important Facts of the News
- 28 agricultural heritage sites recognized.
- Sites located across 14 countries.
- Total number of designated GIAHS systems now stands at 102 worldwide.
- Award ceremony held at FAO Headquarters in Rome.
- Event coincided with FAO’s 80th Anniversary.
- Recognition highlights role of communities in biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.
- Ministers and high-level officials from Andorra, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tajikistan, Mexico, Italy, Spain and others participated.
- Voices from heritage communities included representatives from Brazil, Ecuador, Republic of Korea, Italy, Tanzania and Tunisia.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations held a special ceremony in Rome to acknowledge 28 unique agricultural heritage sites recognized over the last two years. Spread across 14 countries, these sites have now joined the global network of 102 systems officially acknowledged as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems. The recognition took place as part of events marking the 80th Anniversary of FAO.
Strengthening Traditional Knowledge and Biodiversity
The heritage systems represent living landscapes shaped by farmers, fishers, pastoralists and forest-dwelling communities who continue to manage natural resources using practices refined over generations. Their work contributes to vital goals such as protecting biodiversity, maintaining cultural identity and improving the resilience of rural livelihoods during environmental challenges.
FAO Director-General QU Dongyu commended the communities maintaining these landscapes. He noted that their experience carries valuable lessons for sustainable farming, ecosystem protection and securing food systems, particularly in light of climate challenges.
High-Level Participation
The ceremony gathered prominent representatives from several countries. Speakers included the Minister of Environment, Agriculture and Livestock of Andorra, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development of São Tomé and Príncipe, and the Minister of Agriculture of Tajikistan. Messages were also conveyed on behalf of agricultural ministers from Indonesia, Italy and Japan.
Other attendees included parliamentarians, local government leaders and representatives from regions connected to designated heritage sites across Mexico, Italy and Spain. The Secretary-General of UN Tourism also shared remarks highlighting the strong relationship between cultural landscapes, local economies and sustainable tourism.
Stories from Heritage Communities
A discussion session brought together representatives from Brazil, Ecuador, the Republic of Korea, Italy, Tanzania and Tunisia. A pastoralist leader from the Maasai community, an Indigenous farmer from Cotacachi and a traditional diver from Jeju Island shared experiences demonstrating how knowledge passed through generations strengthens both identity and adaptation to environmental pressures.
Showcasing Heritage Through Exhibitions
An exhibition displaying products, photographs and narratives from various heritage landscapes accompanied the event. Selected items are available for viewing in the Food and Agriculture Museum and Network, presenting visitors with an overview of all designated sites and their cultural significance.
Preserving Heritage for the Future
The GIAHS initiative, established in 2002 and formally adopted within FAO in 2015, has identified remarkable agricultural systems across 29 countries. The approach emphasizes the balance between tradition and innovation, supporting communities in maintaining cultural practices while advancing sustainable rural development.