Youth drive the tractor of rural revitalization

On Dec 1, 2022, Carlos Watson, a representative for the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, joined the International Youth Forum for Building Beautiful Rural Homeland.

In his speech, Watson remarked on the importance of young people in the effort to revitalize rural areas through key and strategic involvement. According to Watson, those living in rural areas around the world are at high risk, due to their lack of access to basic social protection,

Watson stressed that youth play a vital role in rural development initiatives, their involvement is key in ensuring a smooth transition in the digital era. In an ever-changing world, young people are the bridge between "traditional farming techniques and new technologies".

In fact, young people are already on the road to significant impact through initiatives set out by the World Food Forum Youth Action track. More and more young people are "focused on how to innovate and shape policy, to ensure more people can access safe and nutritious food, while looking at ways to mitigate climate crisis".

Specially, youth in China have been recognized by the FAO for their contribution in agriculture and all-around rural revitalization. Watson expressed favor for the continued collaboration between the FAO and its partners in China, calling for partnership "with the young generation in rural area, to contribute to rural revitalization, while working for China, with China, and from China".