This 51-page publication focuses on recent agricultural extension reform measures that promote food security and poverty alleviation among small-holders in low-income countries.

In many of these countries, the authors point out, agricultural and rural extension is in disarray, which highlights the tension between the modern force of globalisation and the traditional forces of culture, geography, and community.

The document explores both market and non-market reforms in the Philippines, Iran, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Pakistan, Indonesia, Eritrea, Mozambique, Uganda, Yemen, and other countries. In this context, the paper proposes strategies to help FAO staff provide guidance to these countries on the reform of their agricultural and rural extension systems.