The 2020 Global Nutrition Report was released on May 12, 2020 during the time COVID-19 continues to spread around the world. The Global Nutrition Report was initially published to track and evaluate the commitments made by the stakeholders at the Nutrition and Growth Initiative Summit (N4G) in 2013. It conducts independent and data-driven assessments of the state of global nutrition, complements data on nutrition which tend to be insufficient, and plays an important role in encouraging action to improve nutrition.

This year's report, like the previous ones, is the most comprehensive report presenting nutritional status at the global, regional and national levels, and tracking the progress towards the goals in international nutrition and commitment to reach those goals. It combines in-depth analysis and expert opinion based on as much data as is available on malnutrition and suggests the actions necessary to reduce the nutrition gap. A communication toolkit is also provided.

Today, many countries around the world have the dual burden of undernourishment and overweight. According to the report, 1 in 9 people worldwide are undernourished and 1 in 3 people are overweight. Everyone has the right to a healthy, accessible diet and quality nutritional care, but in reality it is not always enjoyed due to issues such as access and price. Poor diet and the resulting malnutrition are not just a matter of personal choice.

The subtitle of this year's report is "action on equity to end malnutrition" and focuses on equity in ending all forms of malnutrition. It reveals the effects of inequity. Pattern analysis at the global and national levels has shown that the disparities within and among groups are invisible, hiding the existence of the most vulnerable people. And to make food and health systems equitable, resilient and sustainable, to invest in nutrition (especially for the most vulnerable people), to cooperate internationally, To renew and extend its nutrition commitments and strengthen accountability.

The report itself was edited before the new coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but the foreword also mentions the pandemic. The new coronavirus has exposed vulnerabilities in food and health systems. The impacts are disproportionate and have a greater impact on already vulnerable people. Malnutrition reduces immunity and makes you more susceptible to infections. In addition, socio-economic implications can lead to malnutrition. Nutrition is a very important factor in having resilience to withstand global stress during emergencies and long-term response. As the world's food and health system is under threat, we call on governments, businesses and civil society to step up efforts to combat all forms of malnutrition.

Reference

Development Initiatives. (2020). 2020 Global Nutrition Report: Action on equity to end malnutrition. Bristol, UK. Accessed on May 15, 2020.

Contributor: SHIRATORI Sakiko (Research Strategy Office)