The 16th of October marks World Food Day and the foundation of

the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United

Nations (UN) on October 16, 1945. This UN designated day aims

to promote global awareness and encourage effective action for

those who suffer from hunger, with the aspiration of eradicating

world hunger. 

 

Food is an essential form of sustenance for humans, that if lacking

could affect their chances of survival. Throughout history, food has

acted as a powerful catalyst for development. However, the issue

of food security has become very prominent. 

 

Early this year the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic that

has negatively impacted the livelihood of all, without

discrimination, creating myriad challenges. Climate change,

conflict and the economic and social downturns of the pandemic risks straining food systems around the world and threatens to reverse gains made in ending hunger globally. Hence, in an action against hunger, it is necessary to highlight how food and agriculture are an essential aspect of the COVID-19 response, which falls in accordance with the theme for this year's World Food Day : “Grow, Nourish, Sustain. Together. Our actions are our future.” 

 

Global cooperation and solidarity is required to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future, as well as support the recovery of vulnerable communities impacted by the pandemic.  Hence, it is absolutely necessary to :

1. transform food systems

2. ensure that they are resilient and capable of withstanding climate shocks and other crises

3. structured to ensure the provision of sustainable diets for all.  

 

The Geneva Institute for Human Rights stresses that it is unacceptable that the lack of adequate nutrition is the cause of approximately half of all deaths in children under the age of five, or about three million children annually, according to the United Nations Children's Fund. Similarly, approximately 821 million people suffer from malnutrition or chronic food deprivation, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. 

 

Moreover, according to the 2018 report on  "The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World: Building climate resilience for food security and nutrition”,  the number of people who suffer from hunger is rising rapidly, reaching a terrifying level similar to a decade ago.

 

Furthermore, multiple forms of malnutrition have become evident in many countries around the world, indicating that achieving the goal of eliminating world hunger within the sustainable development goals by 2030 will not be possible without immediate and organized efforts. Food waste is an issue that affects global food security, the environment and the global economy. 

 

 Finally, the Geneva Institute for Human Rights appeals to the international community to ensure the realization of the right to food through united and coordinated efforts and urges the global community to join the United Nations World Food Program  “Stop the Waste” campaign and work towards implementing bolder and innovative measures to encourage sustainable habits and eradicate global hunger.