These guidelines, the result of FAO's Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources, provide an overview of the fundamental issues involved in developing and operating gene banks as elements in comprehensive national strategies for the management of animal genetic resources. Livestock agriculture is in a period of tumultuous change and upheaval. General economic development, and population growth and mobility, have increased demand for livestock products, but have also placed pressures on the sustainability of rural environments and animal production systems. Livestock keepers will need to increase their efficiency to meet the rising demand while continually adapting their animal genetic resources to changing economic and environmental conditions.