Global Unity in Organic Agriculture: Insights from Taiwan’s General Assembly 

By Tia Loftsgard

As I boarded my flight to Taiwan to attend the 16th annual Organic World Congress (OWC) in which I would also chair the 2024 General Assembly of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM), a mixture of anticipation and gratitude filled me. This was not just a professional milestone but also a deeply personal one—a chance to stand at the crossroads of change for the global organic movement. 

The General Assembly of members of IFOAM International

 The General Assembly, held on December 6 and 7, was set against the stunning backdrop of Chiayi, Taiwan, a region known for its lush agricultural landscapes and commitment to sustainable practices. Walking into the venue on the first day, I was struck by the energy of the attendees and the warm greeting by the Taiwanese hosts. Delegates from every corner of the world had gathered—farmers, policymakers, researchers, and advocates—all driven by a shared vision of a healthier planet. 

Canada has been deeply embedded in the global organic movement and has hosted the OWC two times – in 1980 in Montreal and in Victoria in 2012. COTA is a long-standing member of IFOAM International, and I was awarded the title of Organic Ambassador for North America by IFOAM International in 2018. It is with pride that we connect and support and benefit from the international network of the organic movement.  Without IFOAM International, we would not be where we are today. 

Chairing this assembly was both a privilege and a responsibility. I was aware of the weight of the decisions we were to make, decisions that would shape the future of organic agriculture on a global scale. The two-day agenda was packed, but the excitement was palpable. We were not just there to discuss—we were there to act.  

Tia Loftsgard, Executive Director of the Canada Organic Trade Association, co-chairing the 2024 General Assembly of the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) with Chris Atkinson from the Soil Association.

One of the most significant outcomes of the assembly was the election of a new board for IFOAM. The candidates brought diverse perspectives, each with a passion for advancing organic agriculture. Witnessing the democratic process unfold was inspiring. The members’ thoughtful deliberations and votes culminated in a board that reflects the diversity and dynamism of our movement. This new leadership team has the crucial task of steering IFOAM through the next phase of its journey, and I have every confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion. 

Perhaps the most profound outcome of the assembly was the mandate given to the new board to develop a revised governance model for IFOAM International. Over the next 18 months, this model will be designed to ensure that IFOAM remains adaptive, inclusive, and effective in addressing the challenges of our time. This decision reflects the organization’s commitment to continuous improvement and its recognition of the need to evolve in a rapidly changing world. As chair, it was deeply rewarding to facilitate the discussions that led to this milestone. The room buzzed with ideas, and the collaborative spirit was a testament to the strength of our global network. 

The newly elected IFOAM International World Board: Karen Mapusua, Marco Schlüter, Sarah Compson, Shamika Mone, Edgardo Boy Uychiat, Huei-Wen (Mag) Chin, Paul Holmbeck, Amber Sciligo, Julia Lernoud, Choitresh Ganguly

Another highlight of the assembly was the decision on the location for the 2027 Organic World Congress (OWC). After careful consideration and spirited discussions, Negros Occidental in the Philippines was chosen to host this flagship event. Known as the “Organic Capital of the Philippines,” Negros Occidental is a shining example of what a committed community can achieve in organic agriculture. It will be the first time an OWC will be hosted by an Asian country in the global south. Its selection is a testament to the region’s leadership and innovation in this field, and I am eager to see how the local organizing committee will bring their unique vision to life. The announcement was met with cheers, and I could see the pride and excitement on the faces of the Filipino delegation. It was a reminder of how deeply organic agriculture connects us to our communities and to one another. 

The two days of the assembly were a whirlwind of activity. In addition to the formal agenda, the informal moments were equally impactful. Over shared meals, hallway conversations, and cultural performances associated with the Organic World Congress, I connected with colleagues and friends old and new. These interactions reminded me of the human element at the heart of our movement. It’s not just about policies or markets; it’s about people—farmers who nurture the soil, activists who campaign for change, scientists who innovate, and consumers who make conscious choices. 

Reflecting on the assembly as I journeyed back home, I was filled with hope and determination. The outcomes we achieved—a new board, the selection of Negros Occidental for the 2027 OWC, and the commitment to a revised governance model—are more than just milestones. They are stepping stones toward a more sustainable and equitable future for our movement. 

Canadian organic attendees with their voting cards. From left to right: Dr. Andrew Hammermeister (Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada), Shenali Madhanaroopan (Riverside Natural Foods), Katie Fettes (Canadian Organic Growers)

For me, chairing the General Assembly was not just about facilitating discussions or guiding decisions. It was about bearing witness to the collective power of our global community. It was a reminder that while the challenges we face are immense, our shared commitment to organic principles gives us the strength to overcome them. 

I am deeply grateful to everyone who participated in the assembly. Your dedication and passion are the lifeblood of IFOAM International. Together, we are not just building a movement; we are cultivating a future where organic agriculture is not the exception but the norm. A future where our food systems are resilient, our ecosystems are thriving, and our communities are nourished. 

 As we look ahead, I am confident that the seeds planted in Chiayi will bear fruit in the years to come. The journey continues, and I am honored to walk this path with all of you. Here’s to the next chapter of organic agriculture—bold, inclusive, and transformative. 

About Tia Loftsgard:

Tia has been the Executive Director of the Canada Organic Trade Association since 2016. With extensive experience working in the organic food industry, Tia co-founded Camino chocolate (La Siembra Co-operative) as the first Fairtrade and organic certified cocoa and sugar company and went on to hold senior roles with Fairtrade International in Canada and the United States.  She sits on the Technical Committee for the Canadian Organic Standards review, the Aquaculture Standards Interpretation Committee, chairs the Technical Committee for Organic Equivalencies and is the North American ambassador for IFOAM International.