FAO Staff Coop is a cooperative organization established in 1992 in Rome, Italy. Its primary aim is to provide services and benefits to members of the United Nations and the wider diplomatic community based in Rome. Since its creation, almost 10,000 members have used its offerings, reflecting a steady and ongoing demand within the international community located in the city.
The organization operates independently from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) but maintains close connections due to its location at the FAO headquarters in Rome and its service to UN system staff. FAO Staff Coop runs an array of member-oriented services. It manages listings for long-term accommodation rentals, assisting staff and diplomats newly arriving in Rome or seeking to relocate. Additionally, the cooperative offers a variety of practical amenities, such as insurance brokerage, international medical services, language courses, bike repair and rental, sports and wellness activities, and cultural programs. Recent partners include local gyms, barbershops, agriturismo stays, and ticket arrangements for major cultural venues like the Teatro dell’Opera.
The cooperative’s projects are driven by practical needs rather than commercial incentives. Its platform for long-term apartment rentals gives staff access to vetted accommodation options in Rome and surrounding areas. This responds to challenges faced by international staff in securing reliable housing. The Staff Coop remains embedded in the daily lives of UN personnel, providing support that is both utilitarian and adapted to the transient nature of international work.