Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty Launched

The G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro marked step in tackling global issues with the launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. This initiative, led by Brazil during its G20 presidency in 2024, aims to connect nations struggling with hunger and poverty to resources and expertise needed for effective public policies. The urgency of this initiative stems from the setbacks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which exacerbated poverty levels and nutrition deficits, particularly in the Global South.

Background and Need for the Alliance

In 2015, the United Nations established the ‘2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’. This agenda sought to eliminate poverty and hunger globally. However, the pandemic has reversed progress, leading to increased extreme poverty and declining nutrition standards. Current projections suggest that by 2030, 622 million people may live in extreme poverty, double the target set in 2015. The need for urgent action has never been clearer.

Launch and Objectives of the Alliance

Brazilian President Lula da Silva emphasised the dire state of global conditions during the launch. He brought into light the rising conflicts, forced displacements, and deepening inequalities. The Alliance aims to provide a collaborative platform where 81 countries, along with international organisations and foundations, can share best practices and support each other’s initiatives aimed at eradicating hunger and poverty.

Operational Framework of the Alliance

The Alliance will operate without an exclusive fund. Instead, it will act as a facilitator, connecting countries in need with donors and technical support. Member countries can access over 50 evidence-based policy instruments. Six priority areas, termed Sprints 2030, will focus on vulnerable populations. These include school meals, cash transfers, support for smallholder farming, socio-economic inclusion, maternal and early childhood interventions, and water access solutions.

Funding and Structure

Annual operational costs for the Alliance are estimated between $2 million and $3 million. Funding will come from member nations and institutions such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UNICEF, and the World Bank. The headquarters may be located in Brasilia or another Global South nation, with an office likely established at FAO headquarters in Rome.

Expected Impact

The Alliance is expected to play important role in addressing hunger and poverty. By encouraging collaboration among member countries, it aims to implement effective public policies. The initiative is a response to the urgent need for innovative solutions to combat the escalating crises of hunger and poverty in the world.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global poverty and hunger levels.
2. Critically discuss the role of international organisations in addressing hunger and poverty.
3. Analyse the significance of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
4. Point out the challenges faced by countries in implementing effective public policies for poverty eradication.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global poverty and hunger levels.

1. The pandemic caused important economic disruptions, leading to job losses and reduced incomes.
2. Extreme poverty levels rose, with projections indicating 622 million people may live below the extreme poverty line by 2030.
3. Nutrition standards declined, particularly in the Global South, exacerbating food insecurity.
4. Global conflicts increased, contributing to forced displacements and worsening living conditions.
5. Overall, the pandemic reversed years of progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals related to poverty and hunger.

2. Critically discuss the role of international organisations in addressing hunger and poverty.

1. International organisations provide funding, expertise, and resources to support national efforts in combating hunger and poverty.
2. They facilitate collaboration between countries and stakeholders to share best practices and successful policy implementations.
3. Organisations like FAO and UNICEF focus on specific areas such as food security, nutrition, and child welfare.
4. They also monitor global progress and advocate for policy changes at national and international levels.
5. However, challenges include limited funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and the need for coordinated efforts among diverse stakeholders.

3. Analyse the significance of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

1. The Alliance serves as a collaborative platform for over 81 countries to share resources and best practices in fighting hunger and poverty.
2. It targets vulnerable populations through six priority areas, ensuring focused and effective interventions.
3. The Alliance’s matchmaking role connects countries in need with donors and technical support, enhancing resource mobilization.
4. By addressing the urgent need for innovative solutions, the Alliance aims to reverse the setbacks caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
5. Ultimately, it aligns with the 2030 Agenda by promoting sustainable development through collective action and shared responsibility.

4. Point out the challenges faced by countries in implementing effective public policies for poverty eradication.

1. Limited financial resources hinder the development and execution of comprehensive poverty alleviation programs.
2. Bureaucratic inefficiencies and lack of coordination among government agencies can stall policy implementation.
3. Political instability and corruption undermine trust and effectiveness in policy execution.
4. Socio-economic inequalities often lead to marginalized groups being overlooked in policy frameworks.
5. External factors such as climate change, global conflicts, and economic downturns further complicate poverty eradication efforts.