FIAN International pays tribute to outgoing Secretary General and welcomes new leadership
As the new year begins FIAN International bids farewell to Sofia Monsalve Suárez. As FIAN's first female Secretary General from the Global South, Sofía brought unprecedented depth and breadth to the organization.
Sofia strengthened the International Secretariat’s strategic capacity, linking its mission to critical global issues such as climate change, digitalization, financialization, war and conflict and the often-overlooked realm of care work.
Her remarkable ability to inspire, unite, and lead has earned her immense respect and admiration among colleagues, partners, and government counterparts worldwide.
“Sofia’s leadership of FIAN and strong personal commitment to supporting grassroots struggles and advocating internationally has placed FIAN at the center of the right to food movement,” said FIAN International Board President Priscilla Claeys.
"FIAN International expresses our deepest gratitude to Sofia for her exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and lifelong commitment to advancing the right to food and nutrition,” added Juana Camachos, FIAN International Vice President.
“Her legacy will continue to inspire us, and we wish her every success and fulfillment in her future endeavors. In 2025 Sofia will continue to be part-time with FIAN in other capacities, contributing with her huge experience and inspiring us in our shared pursuit of human dignity and human rights for all."
Sofia will be succeeded by Ana Maria Suarez Franco, who has extensive experience of international advocacy. Ana Maria has been with FIAN for more than two decades, most recently serving as permanent representative to the UN in Geneva.
FIAN’s International Council welcomed the change of leadership approved by the International Board and reaffirmed its commitment to stand alongside communities, Indigenous Peoples, peasants, fishers, food workers and others fighting for systemic change in food systems.
The council, made up of representatives from FIAN national Sections in almost 20 countries, also adopted a new strategic plan to guide FIAN International’s work in the coming years.
For more information please contact Yifang Slot-Tang: slot-tang@fian.org