The Nutrition Summit in Paris – Between Hope and Disappointment

Ending Hunger and Malnutrition

In March, government representatives from 106 countries gathered in Paris for the third Nutrition for Growth Summit, alongside participants from science, the private sector, and civil society. Their shared goal was to generate greater investment and commitment to significantly curb all forms of malnutrition. Globally, more than 733 million people are still denied their right to food. Over 2.8 billion people cannot afford a healthy diet, and millions suffer from the consequences of hunger and malnutrition. Children under the age of five are among the hardest hit.

Money and Political Will

In total, commitments worth $27.5 billion were made by governments, the private sector, and civil society. World Vision also pledged to invest at least $1 billion through its programming to combat hunger and malnutrition.
The German government confirmed funding of €870 million for the period from 2022 to 2027, and reaffirmed its political commitment by joining the new international initiative on food security, the Global Compact on Nutrition Integration.

More Than Just Words?

These are important steps in the right direction. But given the immense challenges, declining financial resources, and waning international solidarity, these pledges are far from sufficient.
It also remains to be seen whether these commitments will translate into concrete action and adequate funding—or whether, despite lofty political promises, national interests will once again take precedence over international solidarity.