Deep roots

The International Year of Family Farming (IYFF) has uncovered well-grounded resolve to place family farmers as protagonists in addressing a number of challenges we face, from eradicating hunger and poverty to conserving natural resources. Nothing comes closer to the sustainable food production paradigm than family farming. The diverse set of experiences in this publication puts this paradigm in focus. The United Nations chose 2014 as the IYFF in order to recognize and bolster the contribution of family farmers. Out of 570 million farms in the world, 500 million are family owned, making the well-being of farm families inextricably woven into the overall well-being of societies, with tremendous implications for food production and sustainability. The severe food crisis experienced over the last years have shown that world food security cannot be achieved and sustained by relying only on the international commodity markets. The crisis has generated a wide consensus that vibrant family farmers are key to supply domestic markets and generate jobs and incomes in the rural areas. With FAO as the implementing agency of the IYFF, an intense policy dialogue process has been undertaken throughout 2014, involving governments, family farmer’s networks, the academy and research centers, civil society organizations and the private sector, which resulted in strong political commitment from around the world. Deep Roots reflects the momentum that the IYFF has galvanized during the year. With so many experiences and insights captured in one place, this book offers an opportunity to reflect on family farming in its rich diversity while serving as a tool for how best to address their needs and demands. The gains of the IYFF beckon our gaze toward the horizon, moving us forward as we continue the momentum gained thus far. As FAO, we recognize the significance of this task and are committed to support Members shape the enabling policy and knowledge environment for family farming in the years to come. Let the insights, challenges, and opportunities presented in this publication guide our collective work going forward.