World hunger levels rise again
After a prolonged decline, the number of chronically undernourished people in the world increased last year, according to the latest statistics from the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation.
In 2016, the number of chronically undernourished people in the world is estimated to have increased to 815 million, up from 777 million in 2015 although still down from about 900 million in 2000. The come from the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, in its latest State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report. The deterioration has been worst in areas hit by conflict, or conflict combined with drought, including sub-Saharan Africa, South-Eastern Asia and Western Asia.
Undernutrition is just one form of malnutrition. In many parts of the world, multiple forms of malnutrition coexist, with countries experiencing high rates of child undernutrition as well as anaemia among women and adult obesity. Levels of childhood overweight and obesity are increasing in most regions, and in all regions for adults.
The report focuses on conflict as a key driver of severe food crises. Hunger and undernutrition are significantly worse where conflicts are prolonged and institutional capacities weak. Find more information and links to the report here.
The Sustain alliance campaigns for greener, fairer and healthier food systems for everyone. Find out more about our activities and support us here.
Published Friday 29 September 2017
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