Over the years, we have seen great progress in science, technology and economics, yet hunger rates continue to grow more complex. According to a United Nations report, it provided new evidence that the world is moving further away from achieving the goal of eliminating hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms by 2030.
The number of people suffering from hunger in the world has risen to about 828 million people in 2021, an increase of about 46 million people since 2020 and 150 million people since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The escalation of this problem requires us to search for new and innovative strategies to confront it and work seriously towards achieving the ambitious goal of eliminating hunger and ensuring food security.
In this article, we will take a look at the root causes of this phenomenon and present potential solutions. Join us on this exploratory journey.
Key reasons for the rise in hunger rates worldwide:
1. Poverty and Economic Inequality:
Poverty remains a major factor in increasing hunger rates. Individuals living in poverty often struggle to afford an adequate diet, making them more susceptible to poor nutrition and hunger. Additionally, economic inequality within and between countries exacerbates the problem, as resources and opportunities are not distributed equitably.
2. Armed Conflicts and Displacement:
The spread of armed conflicts and population displacement due to wars and political instability plays a devastating role in worsening the hunger issue. Conflicts affect food production and distribution, making it difficult for millions to access food.
3. Climate Change and Environmental Degradation:
The negative impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events, droughts, and rising temperatures, have a detrimental effect on agricultural production. Environmental degradation, including soil erosion and biodiversity loss, threatens global food systems.
4. Weak Infrastructure and Distribution Gaps:
Weak infrastructure and inadequate food distribution systems can prevent food from reaching those in need adequately, particularly in remote areas with limited services.
To alleviate hunger rates worldwide, comprehensive solutions targeting the root causes of this urgent humanitarian issue are necessary. Here are some solutions that can contribute to solving the problem:
Promoting Agriculture and Technological Advancements:
Supporting farmers by providing training and advanced agricultural technology to increase food production.
Promoting sustainable agriculture practices to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Poverty Alleviation:
Improving employment opportunities and increasing income for the poor.
Providing social and economic support programs for the most vulnerable populations.
Conflict Resolution and Displacement Mitigation:
Working towards peace and reducing the impact of armed conflicts.
Supporting refugees and migrants and providing relief to affected regions.
Food Waste Reduction:
Reducing food waste throughout the supply and distribution chain.
Encouraging sustainable consumption practices and raising awareness about the importance of reducing food loss.
The role of charitable institutions in alleviating hunger:
Charitable institutions play a prominent and vital role in the efforts to combat hunger in impoverished communities. They provide crucial support by offering food assistance, developing sustainable agricultural projects, and providing financial aid to impoverished families.
Out of our sense of responsibility towards vulnerable populations, the Ensany Foundation initiated a program to distribute sacrificial meat to needy families in many countries (Watch the video).
In conclusion, we can say that everyone has the right to access food, and no one should go to bed on an empty stomach. Let us unite and work together to build a world free from hunger.