International Year of the Potato relationship that exists between poverty, food security, malnutrition and the potential contribution of the potato to defeating hunger." This was one of many international observances declared for specific days, months and years. The year 2008 was shared with the International Year of Sanitation. It was hoped that International Year designation will do for the potato what the International Year of Rice (2004) did for that food staple, namely, inspire exhibits, educational programs, films, publications and greater public awareness of multi-national efforts on behalf of our food resources. The year 2008 was also designated the National Year of the Potato in
United States Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture Representatives; George McGovern was a former United States Senator and the 1972 Democratic Party presidential nominee; and Tony P. Hall was a long-time sitting member of the House who resigned his seat in order to take on the role. Several of the nominees, especially including McGovern and Hall, had long prior involvements with food, agriculture, and hunger issues. On the other hand, from 1988 through 1997 the position was held by career Foreign Service Officers. As of 2017–18 the position has been vacant, one of many unfilled by the new administration. During such times the acting personage is the "Chargé