Imagine a space where female leaders in agri-food systems policy across the Americas come together to discuss, decide, and drive transformation. The Permanent Forum of Ministers, Vice Ministers, and High-Level Officials is precisely that space—a forum designed for women in senior political roles to contribute to the transformation of agri-food systems.

This forum not only emphasizes the importance of gender equality on the hemispheric agriculture agenda but also strengthens the influence of women in public policy. It is a place where their voices are heard, and their decisions directly impact the promotion of more equitable agri-food systems.

The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) promotes this forum in response to Resolution No. 534 of the 2021 Inter-American Board of Agriculture (IABA), which tasked IICA with creating “a dialogue space with Ministers, Vice Ministers, and other high-level public sector officials to highlight the participation of rural women and propose gender-responsive policies that reduce gender gaps and inequalities, enhancing their participation and inclusion in rural development on equal terms.”

On the Platform, the Forum has a prominent presence, serving as a space where you can find key resources, past event details, photographs, and updates on future activities. Here, you can access valuable information and explore initiatives that promote gender equality in the sector. This digital space facilitates access to materials that support the Forum’s mission, ensuring that its efforts have a broad reach and lasting impact.

Through this forum, we are building a future where female leaders can unite, share experiences, and design policies that improve the lives of rural women across the hemisphere.