IFAD and Finland have a shared vision of a world without poverty and hunger. Their joint development work rests on multiple key pillars: sustainable use of natural resources and biodiversity, the production of safe and nutritious foods, gender equality, human rights, the rights of people with disabilities, job creation – especially for young people, innovations in climate resilience, improved access to markets and increased engagement with the private sector.

Strategic guidance from Finland has been key to strengthening IFAD’s efficiency and effectiveness, and its approaches to targeting and transparency. Finland has also been closely engaged in creating the building blocks for IFAD’s financial innovation and sustainability.

IFAD focuses exclusively on poverty reduction in rural areas, where more than 80 per cent of the world’s poorest people live. IFAD’s investments empower rural people to produce more food, sustainably manage natural resources, start businesses, build strong organizations and gain a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. The Fund’s work tackles the root causes
of poverty and contributes directly to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. The mobilization of private resources, technology and innovations are key to reaching these goals.