The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) aims to guarantee that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives through capacity development and awareness raising [1]. Founded in 1945, FAO is governed by the Conference of Member Nations, which meets every two years to review the work carried out by the Organization and approve a Programme of Work and Budget for the next biennium [2]. Under its mandate, FAO is responsible for raising levels of nutrition, improving agricultural productivity, improving the lives of rural populations, and contributing to the growth of the world economy [3].

Social and economic inequalities between men and women undermine food security and hold back economic growth and advances in agriculture [4]. In response to evidence that gender inequality exacerbates food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty, FAO developed a new strategic framework to target gender equity as one of its key objectives for the next 10 years [5].

Food scarcity and inequalities in food distribution are exacerbated during periods of armed conflict, thereby rendering women and girls more vulnerable to malnutrition. For decades, FAO has made large contributions of food production and food security to women, and has taken action to remove the barriers that limit their opportunities, as well as the full enjoyment of their rights. Through the distribution of food directly to women, it increases the possibility of food reaching those who need it the most [6].

Source: Food and Agricultural Organization