Why it matters:
Rural and nomadic women play a vital role in ensuring food security, promoting sustainable development, and protecting the environment. Their empowerment is key to advancing Iran’s rural economy and achieving the United Nations’ goals on poverty eradication and gender equality.
The big picture:
The International Day of Rural Women (October 15) precedes World Food Day (October 16) and the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (October 17). Together, these global observances highlight the interconnected roles of women, food, and sustainability in building resilient communities.
What they’re saying:
Farukh Toirov, FAO Representative in Iran, stressed that:
“Rural women are at the heart of food security, sustainable development, and poverty reduction. Iranian women’s active role in these areas is remarkable, often ahead of many countries.”
He emphasized that the year’s theme, “Hand in Hand for Better Food and a Better Future,” reflects the need for collective action and policy support to enhance women’s participation in agriculture, the economy, and community development.
Key points:
- The conference focused on identifying the capacities and strengths of rural and nomadic women.
- Discussions addressed the development challenges facing women in rural communities and sought to better align national development plans with on-the-ground realities.
- Several successful rural women entrepreneurs in food production, environmental protection, and local economies were honored.
- The event aimed to enhance policy coordination among planners and stakeholders in rural development.
Between the lines:
Experts highlighted that empowering women in rural and nomadic areas not only supports family livelihoods but also strengthens national resilience against poverty and hunger.
Go deeper:
Iranian agencies have increasingly focused on integrating gender perspectives into agricultural and environmental programs. Analysts say sustained investment in training, financial access, and rural entrepreneurship will be vital for achieving “a better future” envisioned in this year’s theme.
FAO Rep. in Iran: Climate Change Affects Whole Region
seyed mohammad kazemi - Hossein Vaez
