Global Hunger Declines, But Challenges Linger: What’s Next?

The number of individuals experiencing hunger globally decreased for the third consecutive year in 2024, according to a report from the United Nations. The report highlights that around 673 million people, which is approximately 8.2% of the global population, faced hunger in 2024, down from 8.5% in 2023. This decline is attributed mainly to improved food access in regions like South America and India.

Maximo Torero, the chief economist for the U.N. Food and Agricultural Organization, emphasized that while certain areas have made progress, increased conflict and climate-related challenges continue to threaten food security in parts of Africa and the Middle East. He warned that without the resolution of ongoing conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Sudan, the gains made might be reversed.

The report noted significant improvements particularly in South America, where the hunger rate dropped to 3.8% in 2024, and in Southern Asia, where it fell to 11%. Enhanced agricultural productivity and support programs, such as school meals, have significantly contributed to these improvements. Conversely, Africa is facing a contrasting scenario with over one in five individuals, or 307 million people, undernourished, illustrating a worrying trend where hunger levels are higher than 20 years prior.

As food price inflation remains a concern, particularly impacting low-income populations, the report highlights the need for sustained efforts into long-term agricultural and social interventions. While the overall hunger statistics show a positive trend, the report serves as a reminder that the progress achieved can be fragile in the face of growing instability and socioeconomic factors.

The global community is called to strengthen commitments to address these disparities, echoing sentiments expressed in earlier reports that stressed the urgent need for international cooperation in curbing hunger and malnutrition. This collective action can hopefully usher in a future where access to food is equitable and where efforts to alleviate hunger are not easily undermined by conflict or climate shocks.