In my more than 30 years with the United Nations, I have witnessed incredible transformations, partnerships, and advancements in the pursuit of improving human development. However, amidst all the progress, I have also observed how history has a tendency to repeat itself, often leading to the perpetuation of some of the most challenging global issues. And there is no better example of this than the ongoing battle against malnutrition.
Malnutrition, defined as the lack of proper nutrition, is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It not only hinders physical growth and development but also has severe consequences on mental and cognitive development, leading to a vicious cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. Despite the efforts of the international community, malnutrition continues to be a significant obstacle in achieving sustainable development goals.
As someone who has dedicated their career to the United Nations, I have seen firsthand the tireless efforts of governments, NGOs, and individuals to combat malnutrition. From implementing nutrition-sensitive agriculture programs to promoting breastfeeding and providing access to clean water and sanitation, there have been numerous initiatives to address this issue. And these efforts have not gone unnoticed. We have seen a significant reduction in the number of undernourished people globally, from 23.3% in 1990 to 10.9% in 2019. This is undoubtedly a remarkable achievement, but it is not enough.
Despite the progress, there are still 690 million people who go to bed hungry every night. And the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the situation, pushing an additional 130 million people into chronic hunger. This is a stark reminder that we cannot afford to be complacent in our fight against malnutrition.
One of the main challenges in addressing malnutrition is its complex nature. It is not just about providing food; it is about ensuring access to a diverse and nutritious diet. It requires a holistic approach that involves not only the health sector but also education, agriculture, and social protection. This calls for collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector.
The United Nations has been at the forefront of promoting partnerships and cooperation to tackle malnutrition. The Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement, launched in 2010, brings together governments, civil society, and the private sector to improve nutrition outcomes. The UN Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016-2025) aims to accelerate global action to end all forms of malnutrition. These initiatives have been instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing resources to address malnutrition.
But we need to do more. We need to go beyond just treating the symptoms and address the root causes of malnutrition. This includes tackling poverty, inequality, and food insecurity, which are often the underlying factors contributing to malnutrition. We also need to invest in nutrition-sensitive interventions, such as promoting women’s empowerment and education, improving access to clean water and sanitation, and strengthening health systems.
Furthermore, we must recognize that malnutrition is not just a problem in developing countries. It is a global issue that requires a global response. Developed countries also face challenges such as obesity and diet-related diseases, which are forms of malnutrition. Therefore, it is crucial to address malnutrition in all its forms and across all countries.
As we look towards the future, we must learn from the past and build on the progress we have made. We need to continue investing in nutrition and make it a priority in our development agenda. We must also ensure that nutrition is integrated into all policies and programs, from agriculture to education to health. And most importantly, we must listen to the voices of those affected by malnutrition and involve them in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the fight against malnutrition is far from over, but we have made significant strides in the past few decades. We must not let history repeat itself and allow malnutrition to persist. Let us continue to work together, with determination and collaboration, to ensure that every person has access to adequate and nutritious food. As the saying goes, “we are what we eat,” and it is time to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be healthy and thrive.
