The First International Encounter of Community Leaders and Authorities arose from an analysis of the problems of small farm communities that began in 2005, as a result of five regional encounters held as part of the proposal for development of high-mountain communities. The purpose was to enhance the capabilities of community leaders and authorities and highlight the importance of community organizations. The event led to the establishment of a broad-based forum for community leaders and authorities from various South American countries to share experiences and analyze the problems of small farm communities.

The event drew about 100 leaders and authorities from eight regions of Peru (Puno, Cusco, Apurimac, Lima, Cerro de Pasco, Junín, Lambayeque and Piura), as well as Brazil, Ecuador and Bolivia. Participants included Dr. Manuel Castillo and anthropologist Alejandro Díez, experts on small farm communities. The proposals and commitments focused on two main areas: institutional strengthening of small farm communities, with the preparation and implementation of a strategic plan including environmental issues, food sovereignty, participatory democracy, transparency and trust; and linking small farm communities and establishing partnerships with other institutions to achieve autonomy and food sovereignty, which involves producing to meet family, local and regional needs; conserving the diversity of products; using natural and organic fertilizers; defending territory and natural resources; and defining an environmentally friendly policy for agriculture and natural resources to contribute to the defense of the rights of the majority of the population in South America, especially farm organizations.