The United Nations General Assembly at its 75th session in March 2021 declared 2023 the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023). FAO is the lead agency for celebrating the Year in collaboration with other relevant stakeholders. Millets can grow on arid lands with minimal inputs and are resilient to changes in climate. They are therefore an ideal solution for countries to increase self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported cereal grains.
#IYM2023 will be an opportunity to raise awareness of, and direct policy attention to the nutritional and health benefits of millets and their suitability for cultivation under adverse and changing climatic conditions. The Year will also promote the sustainable production of millets, while highlighting their potential to provide new sustainable market opportunities for producers and consumers.
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This report summarizes the objectives, activities, legacy and recommendations from IYM 2023. Its goal is to inspire key stakeholders to ensure that the year's conclusion marks the beginning of a new era dedicated to promoting sustainable production and consumption of millets.
This paper includes a synopsis of the current status of millets worldwide and was created to inspire policymakers, farmers, civil society, opinion leaders, research and development agents, and the general public to reconsider the role of millets in diversified and healthy diets.
Celebrating the IYM 2023, FAO has featured traditional and innovative millet recipes from the Global Chefs Challenge by chefs and hobby cooks across the world in this Millets recipe book, highlighting the incredible versatility of these ancient grains, and offering culinary inspiration from unique millet creations. From starters to main courses, desserts and snacks, each recipe is a testament to the endless possibilities that millets can offer.
Hundreds of activities and events are being organized worldwide to promote the International Year of Millets!
Hybrid Event, Roma (Italy)
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) welcomes your participation in the closing ceremony of...
Virtual Event
The United Nations General Assembly at its 75th Session in March 2021 declared 2023 the International Year of Millets (IYM 2023). As part of the...
Hybrid Event, Rome (Italy)
Let’s embrace millets and their role in promoting sustainable, resilient and inclusive food systems.
Virtual Event
The 'Abundance in Millets' song, performed by Mumbai-born singer-songwriter...
As a chef or a seasoned cook, have you ever prepared a recipe using millets? If you haven't, it's time to unlock their great potential.
Watch the IYM promotional video and share it on social media to inspire action for #IYM2023!
Rich in heritage and full of potential, millets are a sustainable, nutritious and under-valued food source
Whether you’re a government, city, private business, NGO, journalist, civil society organization or individual, you can take part in the International Year of Millets 2023.
Get inspired for your activity or event!
The International Year of Millets 2023 contributes to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The International Year of Millets 2023 is governed by a Steering Committee and a Secretariat, working closely together to deliver all the IYM events and initiatives.
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