Challenges to global food security are a threat to the health and well-being of populations. New UN Report addressing financing this social determinant of health shares Health Policy Watch.
The upcoming “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World” (SOFI) report, set for release on July 24, highlights significant shortcomings in global food security efforts. Fragmented initiatives and a lack of consensus on priorities are major issues, according to the report preview. Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), emphasized the need for more targeted, coordinated, and less risk-averse financing to address hunger more effectively.
Speaking at the Finance to End Hunger event during the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) High-Level Political Forum in New York, Dongyu called for improved coordination and consensus among funders to enhance the impact of food security initiatives. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus echoed this sentiment, noting that despite ongoing efforts, progress remains insufficient.
The SOFI report, developed by FAO, WHO, and other UN agencies, reveals that between 691 and 783 million people faced hunger in 2022, marking an increase from previous years. The report criticizes the current approach, which often focuses on short-term projects rather than addressing the root causes of malnutrition. It suggests that a common definition for food support and better collaboration among agencies could improve outcomes.
The report also addresses the impact of conflicts and climate change on food security, highlighting urgent needs in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Gaza.
Stay tuned for the report.
