FAO official Ben Davis claims dismissal over Gaza famine criticism

Ben Davis, a senior official at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, has announced that his 26-year tenure with the agency ended after his contract was not renewed. Davis claims his dismissal is a direct result of his criticism regarding Israeli policies and the famine conditions in Gaza.

Davis stated he was accused of violating impartiality rules by organizing weekly moments of silence among staff to protest starvation in Gaza. He also noted that a report he co-authored concerning food availability and international humanitarian law in Gaza was reportedly pressured for removal, with technical teams allegedly barred from referencing humanitarian law.

FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu addressed staff in a recorded video session, warning against engaging in human rights-themed political activities within the agency. Qu stated, “We don’t allow you to play the game here of human rights,” suggesting that such interests should be directed toward the UN human rights agency in Geneva. Qu further warned that senior members involved in political activities would face dismissal, stating, “I will fire more people if they are against the law.”

In response to the leadership's stance, Davis has initiated legal proceedings to challenge the decision, arguing that defending the right to food is central to the FAO’s mission. The situation has sparked internal tension, with some staff members reportedly gathering at the Rome headquarters to show solidarity with Davis.