Key Facts
• July 28, 2025: UN report reveals 670 million people face hunger in 2024.
• Hunger affects 8.2% of the global population, down from 8.5% in 2023.
• South America: Hunger rate drops to 3.8% in 2024 from 4.2% in 2023.
• South Asia: Hunger rate decreases to 11% in 2024 from 12.2% in 2023.
• Africa: Over 20% of the population (370 million) suffers from chronic malnutrition.
• COVID-19 aftermath: Hunger rates remain above pre-pandemic levels (7.5% in 2019).
• Conflicts and climate change worsen malnutrition in Africa and West Asia.
• UN predicts Africa will account for nearly 60% of global hunger by 2030.
• Improved food access in South America and India reduces global hunger numbers.
• UN Secretary-General warns conflicts, like in Gaza and Sudan, exacerbate hunger.
• FAO economist highlights risks of rising debt and expanding conflicts.
• Report excludes full data on conflict zones like Gaza due to ongoing crises.
Summary
A UN report released on July 28, 2025, highlights a global hunger population of 670 million in 2024, representing 8.2% of the world’s population and marking a third consecutive year of decline. South America and South Asia saw significant improvements, with hunger rates dropping to 3.8% and 11%, respectively. However, Africa remains severely affected, with over 20% of its population suffering from chronic malnutrition, a figure expected to rise to nearly 60% of global hunger by 2030. While post-COVID-19 recovery continues, hunger rates remain above pre-pandemic levels. Conflicts and climate change exacerbate food insecurity in regions like Africa and West Asia. The report underscores the need for global efforts to address these challenges, warning that expanding conflicts and rising debt could reverse progress.
