In 2025, the fight against hunger showed some progress globally, but challenges remain, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. This area struggles with climate impact, economic instability, and ongoing conflicts, which strain food resources. A recent report from UN agencies highlights that around 40% of the world’s undernourished people live in this region.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), along with other UN bodies, points out that many people can’t afford nutritious food, jeopardizing health and growth. Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala from WHO stresses the need for collaborative approaches to overhaul food systems, ensuring no one gets left behind.
Notably, the report reveals that while 25 million people escaped hunger from 2023 to 2024, South Asia still grapples with severe food insecurity. Approximately 80% of South Asia faces moderate to severe hunger, with alarmingly high rates of child malnutrition: 31.4% of children are stunted and 13.6% are wasted, both surpassing global figures.
Women and girls are among the most affected. About 33.8% of women aged 15 to 49 experience anemia, putting maternal and child health at risk. A WHO report warns that if no action is taken, an additional 18 million women and girls in South Asia could become anemic by 2030, exacerbating existing health issues and contributing to long-term educational and economic setbacks.
Despite some positive trends in food affordability, challenges persist. In 2024, the average cost of a healthy diet was around USD 4.77 per person daily in the region, which is higher than the global norm. South Asia faces the most significant affordability gap, with about 41.7% of its population unable to buy nutritious food.
This lack of access to healthy food increases susceptibility to health problems and may undermine economic progress. According to a study from the Asian Development Bank, between 1960 and 2010, a young and growing workforce contributed significantly to the region’s economic growth. However, rising food insecurity threatens this advantage as urbanization and population growth increase the need for effective solutions.
Experts emphasize the importance of adapting humanitarian responses to address these pressing issues, particularly in the context of urbanization and rising costs. Effective hunger solutions should involve collaboration among governments and organizations to strengthen food systems, making them more accessible and resilient.
The report also touches on how globalization affects hunger strategies. Countries integrated into global markets tend to have lower rates of undernourishment. Trade policies play a crucial role in determining the flow of agricultural products, influencing the variety of foods available. Favorable trade agreements can enhance access to nutritious options, while less beneficial agreements may lead to an influx of unhealthy foods, undermining local agriculture.
Overall, addressing these challenges requires a reorientation of investments in food and agriculture, along with public voice integration in policy-making. As the report states, ensuring sustainable and diverse food production is vital—not only for current generations but for future growth and stability.
For more information and details about the food security crisis in the Asia-Pacific region, refer to the full FAO report on food security and nutrition.
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Armed Conflicts, Asia-Pacific, Climate Change, Economy & Trade, Environment, Food and Agriculture, Gender, Health, Oritro Karim, Inter Press Service, global issues
