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The I-GO Program |
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Background
IFOAM represents 750 organisations in more than 100 countries. 40% of the member organisations are from Developing Countries. In early 2001, IFOAM developed a new four-year program - IFOAM-Growing Organic - I-GO, based on the experiences from its former programs. Its focus is on the development of Organic Agriculture in Developing Countries.
The Program is part of the IFOAM Program 2008, and is based on IFOAM’s mission: IFOAM’s mission is leading, uniting and assisting the organic movement in its full diversity. IFOAM’s goal is the worldwide adoption of ecologically, socially and economically sound systems that are based on the Principles of Organic Agriculture. The first phase of the I-GO Program ended in December 2004. The second phase is from 2005-2008. The Program is funded by HIVOS.
Overall Goal
The overall goal of the I-GO program is “to strengthen the Organic Agriculture movement world-wide”. This includes contributing to the recognition of Organic Agriculture in its full diversity and the increased involvement of Developing Countries in promoting Organic Agriculture.
Goals
During the first phase of I-GO, good results were achieved with regard to harmonisation of standards, integration of social standards into organic production, standards for group certification, improved lobbying structures, improved IFOAM structures, and development of appropriate instruments (e.g. training manuals) for the development of OA.
The following goals are defined to achieve the overall goal of the program mentioned above:
- Goal 1: Organic Agriculture in targeted regions / countries is strengthened.
- Goal 2: Participation and capacity within IFOAM's structures and membership of IFOAM is improved.
- Goal 3: The potential of Organic Agriculture with regard to social, environmental and economic benefits is recognized.
- Goal 4: Organic marketing is improved at all levels in developing countries (export, regional and local marketing).
- Goal 5: An advisory strategy, including consultancies and development agencies, for countries with an emerging sector on organic agriculture is developed and implemented.
Important Announcement
In the beginning of its first phase, the I-GO program successfully implemented many projects proposed by IFOAM member organizations. Over the years, the program has become more proactive. New projects belonging to the I-GO Program have been and will continue to be tendered rather than relying on proposals. This is to ensure that the strategic goals and planning are adhered to. The program will ensure that affiliates are adequately informed about available projects via email and the IFOAM web page.
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