The recent 2025 edition of The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) report, a collaborative effort by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO, unveils a mixed picture of global progress toward ending hunger and malnutrition by 2030.
The report says while some progress and recovery have been made in recent years, the world is still above pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels and far from eradicating hunger and food insecurity by 2030 (SDG Target 2.1). Similarly, despite some progress in the global nutrition targets, the world is not on track to achieve SDG Target 2.2.
As per this report from SOFI, an estimated 8.2 percent of the global population, or about 673 million people, suffered hunger in 2024, down from 8.5 percent in 2023 and 8.7 percent in 2022. However, progress was not consistent across the globe, as hunger continued to rise in most subregions of Africa and western Asia.
Among other factors, persistent food price inflation has slowed this momentum. The report highlights how inflation in many countries has undermined purchasing power and, especially among low-income populations, access to healthy diets. It documents how high food price inflation is associated with increases in food insecurity and child malnutrition.
In response to these challenges and to prevent future price shocks, the report examines policy measures adopted by countries, outlining what is necessary going forward. It stresses the importance of coherent implementation of fiscal and monetary policies to stabilize markets, promote open and resilient trade, and protect vulnerable populations.
Moreover, it calls for better data systems and sustained investment in resilient agrifood systems to ensure long-term food security and nutrition. These coordinated actions are vital to reignite progress towards ending hunger and malnutrition by 2030.
