|
|
Devoting a year to a commodity
is an unprecedented step in United Nations history. Compelling factors
lie under this decision: the spectre of increased hunger, malnutrition,
poverty and conflict in the coming decades. In 2002, these factors moved
the government of the Philippines, along with 43 other countries, to
formally request that the UN General Assembly declare 2004 the International
Year of Rice. But the idea had been circulating among major agricultural
organisations since 1999 due to growing concern that fundamental issues
needed to be tackled on a global level.
Today, a number of international institutions
have come together to steer this vital project alongside the UN Food
and Agriculture Organisation. This section provides information on the
activities they are holding in the course of the Year, detailed reasons
why the UN has launched a Year of Rice. It will be up-dated as the year
progresses. Please don't hesitate to contact us with information concerning
your own initiatives and plans.
|
