As beekeepers, many Apimondia members will recognize the incredible power of beekeeping to reduce poverty and enhance biodiversity. Beekeeping is more than just honey production—it supports livelihoods, strengthens rural economies, and plays a crucial role in protecting our environment. That’s why Apimondia focuses on the role and value of beekeeping in rural development, including:

• Supporting beekeeping as a low-cost, high-impact activity for people with limited financial resources
• Promoting the use of indigenous and local bee species
• Encouraging sustainable beekeeping practices that conserve honeybee and stingless bee populations
• Exploring organic and social certification for beekeeping enterprises
• Strengthening producer groups and cooperatives
• Addressing trade, marketing, and policy challenges
• Highlighting the cultural significance of beekeeping
• Recognizing beekeeping as part of sustainable forest management
• Advocating for policies that support beekeepers and fair trade
• Demonstrating the role of beekeeping in food security and poverty alleviation

Beekeeping has the potential to transform communities by creating sustainable livelihoods while protecting nature. Through this Commission, we aim to inspire and empower more people to harness beekeeping as a tool for positive change.

We look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to support beekeepers and sustainable development around the world.