Ursula Becker Peloso

More than a quarter of a billion people are actually facing acute levels of hunger, and some are on the brink of starvation. That’s unconscionable. This seventh edition of the Global Report on Food Crises is a stinging indictment of humanity’s failure to make progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 2 to end hunger, and achieve food security and improved nutrition for all. In fact, we are moving in the wrong direction. Conflicts and mass displacement continue to drive global hunger. Rising poverty, deepening inequalities, rampant underdevelopment, the climate crisis and natural disasters also contribute to food insecurity. As always, it is the most vulnerable who bear the brunt of this failure, facing soaring food prices that were aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. All this, while humanitarian funding to fight hunger and malnutrition pales in comparison to what is needed. This crisis demands fundamental, systemic change. This report makes clear that progress is possible. We have the data and know-how to build a more resilient, inclusive, sustainable world where hunger has no home — including through stronger food systems, and massive investments in food security and improved nutrition for all people, no matter where they live. With collective action and a commitment to change, we can ensure that every person, everywhere, has access to the most basic of human needs: food and nutrition. Antonio Guterres