FAO WASAG: Working on Saline Agriculture & Leadership of Meike van Ginneken

The Saline Agriculture Working Group

This group focuses on promoting biosaline agriculture—practical, sustainable farming systems designed for salt-affected environments. By developing tools like the Farmers’ Guidelines on Soil and Water Management in Salt-Affected Areas, it provides decision support for farmers in regions affected by salinity intrusion and climate change. Its work includes translating guidelines into training, supporting national-level adaptation policies, and piloting salt-resilient farming schemes.

Meike van Ginneken’s Leadership Role

Meike van Ginneken, the Dutch Water Envoy, is currently serving as vice-chair of WASAG. She plays a strategic role in advancing WASAG’s mission through advocacy, coalition building and policy influence. In the interview, she emphasizes how water must be woven into wider agendas — agriculture, climate, planning — and how inclusive, action-oriented governance is essential to translate commitments into ground action.

As vice-chair, she helps steer WASAG’s direction, connect it with broader diplomatic efforts, and ensure that water remains central in global discussions. Her experience as the Netherlands’ Water Envoy and her cross-sectoral insights strengthen WASAG’s ability to bridge water and agriculture communities.

Looking Ahead: WASAG Forum 2026

A key milestone ahead is the 3rd WASAG International Forum, scheduled for March 2026. Preparations are underway, with a call for technical involvement from experts and partners to contribute to shaping the agenda and advancing solutions for water-scarce agriculture.