The need for FAO and possibly any other UN agency, particularly those engaged in the UN development agenda, has been long overdue. Indeed, this call for contribution is timely, relevant, and appropriate, especially as we strive towards the Agenda 2030. I would take advantage of every opportunity to contribute; thus, my view is below.
One of the best ways FAO can engage and interact better with civil society is by being transparent, honest, and consistent in the communication and actions with these organizations. Remember, civil societies are more often grassroots conduits, making them more acceptable in the communities, which makes even their efforts more percolative in the communities they operate. Civil societies are more sensitive to the consciousness of the communities than any other stakeholder in the development chain of players. In any case, any development agenda FAO wants to pass on to the final benefit (which in most cases is the community) should be clear, transparent, and concisely communicated to civil society.
FAO should also, more often than not, seek the input of civil society and, if possible, embed these ideas (mostly local-based) in the general development agenda. Usually, FAO’s plan is global in content and context. However, these should be somehow decentralized to fit the particular community of beneficiaries and avoid a one-shoe-all scenario. By taking this approach, FAO is cementing a long-lasting appreciation and recognition of the work of civil societies and their achievements and acknowledging their challenges and concerns within the UN food agency’s global and always complex development agenda.
الدكتور James Mawanda