Over 1.4 Million Babies Born into Hunger in Pakistan in 2024

Over 1.4 million babies were born into hunger in Pakistan in 2024, as climate shocks and conflict worsen childhood nutrition. Save the Children reports a global rise in hunger, with 18.2 million undernourished children born this year. Urgent action is required to mitigate the crisis and address the underlying causes of food insecurity.

Recent estimates reveal that over 1.4 million babies were born into hunger in Pakistan in 2024, amidst escalating climate-related challenges such as floods and droughts that impede children’s access to food. According to the international non-governmental organization, Save the Children, Pakistan ranks second globally in the number of infants born undernourished, in countries where more than 20 percent of the population faces malnutrition. The grave situation contributes to a larger global crisis, with approximately 18.2 million children born into hunger worldwide this year.

The data indicates a significant upward trend in child hunger, with an increase of 5 percent compared to the previous year, and a notable 19 percent rise from 2019. Multiple factors contribute to this crisis, including conflict, displacement, extreme weather events, and soaring food prices, all of which exacerbate the plight of children’s nutrition on a global scale.

In recent years, the issue of childhood hunger has intensified due to various global factors. Pakistan, grappling with frequent climate-related disasters, exemplifies the urgent need for focused interventions. The alarming rise in the number of children born into hunger reflects not only local conditions but also the broader implications of global conflict and malnutrition. Save the Children highlights the importance of addressing these root causes to sustain the progress in combating childhood hunger and malnutrition. Furthermore, the alarming circumstances of countries like Gaza underscore the global nature of this crisis.

The stark reality of childhood hunger continues to escalate, with over 1.4 million babies born into hunger in Pakistan by 2024. This situation calls for immediate action from global leaders to address the fundamental causes of food insecurity and malnutrition. Collective efforts are essential to protect vulnerable children and ensure they can thrive in a world free from the burdens of hunger. Save the Children advocates for urgent humanitarian actions, emphasizing that improvement in children’s lives is achievable if strategic solutions are implemented.

Original Source: www.dawn.com