Global Food Security and Nutrition Report 2024

Context

The 2024 edition of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report, released annually by the United Nations, presents the latest updates on the global food security and nutrition situation. This year’s report focuses on the critical issue of financing to end hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition in all its forms.

Key Findings

• Hunger numbers have remained stubbornly high for three consecutive years, with global crises deepening the problem.
• The report proposes a new definition and methodology to measure financing for food security and nutrition, and applies it to estimate existing availability and gaps.
• Achieving the necessary scale of intervention to end hunger and malnutrition will require adequate financing.

Financing for Food Security

A central theme of the 2024 report is the urgent need for increased financing to combat hunger and malnutrition. The report proposes a new definition and methodology to measure financing for food security and nutrition, emphasizing the necessity of both public and private financial resources. This financing is crucial for ensuring the availability, access, utilization, and stability of nutritious foods, as well as for strengthening the resilience of agri-food systems.

Current Gaps in Financing

The report identifies significant gaps in financial resources dedicated to food security and nutrition. Public spending on agriculture remains low and inconsistent, particularly in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. Moreover, food security initiatives receive less than 25% of official development assistance, indicating a lack of prioritization among donors.

Drivers of Food Insecurity

Conflict: Conflict continues to be a major driver of food insecurity. Areas affected by violence often see disruptions in food production and supply chains, leading to increased hunger and malnutrition. The report emphasizes that addressing conflict-related issues is essential for improving food security.

Climate Variability: Climate change poses a severe threat to food systems worldwide. Extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, disrupt agricultural production, leading to food shortages. The report highlights the need for sustainable agricultural practices and climate-resilient food systems to mitigate these impacts.

Economic Challenges: Economic slowdowns and downturns exacerbate food insecurity. The report notes that rising food prices and inflation have made it increasingly difficult for vulnerable populations to access nutritious foods. Economic recovery strategies must prioritize food security to prevent further deterioration of nutritional status.

Nutrition Trends

Malnutrition in All Its Forms: The report underscores the complexity of malnutrition, which encompasses undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight and obesity. The coexistence of these forms of malnutrition presents significant challenges for public health and food systems.

Child Malnutrition: Child malnutrition remains a pressing issue, with millions of children suffering from stunting and wasting. The report calls for targeted interventions to address the nutritional needs of children, particularly in conflict-affected and impoverished areas.

Access to Healthy Diets: The affordability of healthy diets is a growing concern. The report indicates that many people cannot afford a healthy diet, which is crucial for preventing malnutrition. Strategies to improve access to affordable, nutritious foods are essential for enhancing food security.

Policy Recommendations

Increased Investment: The report advocates for increased investment in food security and nutrition, particularly in the most affected regions. This includes both domestic and international funding to support agricultural development, infrastructure, and social protection programs.

Strengthening Agri-Food Systems: Strengthening agri-food systems is vital for enhancing food security. This involves promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving supply chains, and ensuring that food systems are resilient to shocks.

Multi-Sectoral Approaches: Addressing food security and nutrition requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates health, education, and social protection policies. Collaborative efforts among various sectors can lead to more effective interventions and improved outcomes.

Conclusion

The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2024 report highlights the urgent need for action to combat hunger and malnutrition globally. With significant gaps in financing and persistent challenges posed by conflict, climate change, and economic instability, achieving SDG 2 remains a formidable task. However, through increased investment, strengthened agri-food systems, and multi-sectoral approaches, it is possible to make meaningful progress toward ending hunger and improving nutrition for all.

Source: FAO