Our common interest: ending hunger and malnutrition

Bread for the World's 2011 hunger report argues that 2011 is a time of opportunity to achieve lasting progress against global hunger and malnutrition since:

• the dramatic surge in global hunger as a result of a spike in food prices in 2007-2008 galvanised support in both rich and poor countries for raising agricultural investments to the top of their development priorities.
• it also brought into focus the long-term consequences of a spike in hunger, especially for the youngest children.
  
• during the 1,000 days from conception to age two, the consequences of malnutrition are irreversible.

According to this report, Feed the Future, a bold new United States (U.S.) initiative, may be the best opportunity to come along in decades for the U.S. to contribute to lasting progress against global hunger and malnutrition. It should have the strong support of the U.S. public.

This publication recommends a comprehensive approach for fighting hunger and malnutrition effectively. This approach should:

• focus on smallholder farmers and rural development.
• emphasise nutrition, especially for pregnant women and young children.
• empower women.
• strengthen safety nets.
• quickly deal with hunger emergencies.

The report concludes that it is a time for the U.S to renew its commitment to this objective and strengthen partnerships with countries that are eager to work together in this common interest.