Deputy Secretary-General Warns of Significant Challenges in Achieving Zero Hunger by 2030
Following the high-level launch of the State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025 report in Addis Ababa, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed delivered a powerful message about the ongoing global crises of hunger, malnutrition, and inequality. The report reveals that over 670 million people worldwide go to bed hungry, with Africa facing particularly dire circumstances. Mohammed emphasized that these challenges are manmade and called for urgent action to transform food systems to ensure the right to food, health, and dignity for all.
The Current State of Hunger and Malnutrition
The *State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World 2025* report highlights alarming statistics regarding global hunger and malnutrition. Despite a slight decline in hunger levels, approximately 670 million individuals still experience food insecurity. In Africa, the situation is particularly severe, with 307 million people—nearly one in five—facing hunger. This persistent crisis not only threatens basic human rights but also exacerbates existing inequalities, particularly affecting women and children. Women’s nutrition has worsened over the past decade, with rising rates of anemia among women aged 15 to 49. Furthermore, one-third of children between 6 and 23 months are not receiving essential nutrients during a critical period for their development.
The Economic and Social Implications
The report underscores that hunger is not merely a humanitarian issue but also a significant development and economic crisis. The rising cost of food has forced families in low-income countries to make dire choices, such as skipping meals or withdrawing children from school. This situation is compounded by overlapping crises, including conflict, climate change, and inflation, which expose the fragility of global food systems. The economic impact of hunger extends beyond immediate health concerns; it affects learning outcomes for children, reduces adults’ earning potential, and ultimately hinders societal progress. Addressing food security is essential for achieving broader sustainable development goals, as it influences various aspects of life, from health to economic stability.
The Need for Systemic Transformation
Amina Mohammed emphasized the urgent need for systemic transformation in food systems. She argued that cooperation must replace conflict to effectively address the challenges of hunger and malnutrition. Food systems encompass all processes related to food—from production to consumption—and significantly impact economies, societies, and ecosystems. Transforming these systems can create job opportunities for over a billion people globally, particularly in low-income countries where food systems account for a substantial portion of employment. By supporting smallholder farmers, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable practices, we can lower the cost of healthy diets and enhance food sovereignty.
Call to Action for Global Leaders
The UN Deputy Secretary-General called for decisive action from global leaders to address the food crisis. She stressed that transformation will not occur without political will, long-term investment, and bold leadership. It is crucial to foster policy coherence across various sectors, including agriculture, health, and education, while empowering local communities and engaging the private sector. Mohammed urged a shift from emergency responses to comprehensive, sector-wide transitions. The solutions are available, as demonstrated by successful initiatives in various countries. However, the time for incremental change has passed; now is the moment for ambitious and united efforts to build resilient, equitable, and sustainable food systems that ensure dignity and opportunity for all.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn
