This week, world leaders meet in Paris for Nutrition for Growth, the critical four-yearly summit that aims to tackle the scourge of soaring global malnutrition and hunger. As a group of cross-party politicians from the UK – the birthplace of Nutrition for Growth in 2013 – and the summit’s current host, France, we believe that the fight against malnutrition is an issue on which every policymaker should unite.
As official development assistance budgets diminish, it becomes increasingly essential for governments to invest funds strategically. Given that investments in nutrition are low-cost and high-impact, they should be prioritised and elevated on the international development agenda. We urge our governments – and other governments around the world – to make strong pledges on nutrition at the summit to save lives, reduce inequality and enhance global security.
The case for action is compelling. Good nutrition is foundational to human development. Yet today, three billion people cannot afford a healthy diet, and malnutrition remains the leading cause of death among children under five.
Malnutrition in childhood has devastating and generational impacts. Deprived of nutrients at the start of life, hundreds of millions of survivors are physically and mentally impaired, harming their learning and lifelong earning potential, as well as undermining economic development and destabilising societies. This destabilising effect holds huge geopolitical significance, with consequences that extend beyond borders.
However, malnutrition is preventable and treatable. Nutrition for Growth presents a prime international opportunity to disrupt its insidious cycle. Commitments from the UK, France and governments around the world can change the trajectory and improve the lives of millions of people, especially women and children. This summit is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss.
Éléonore Caroit Renaissance party MP, France
David Mundell Conservative MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale; co-chair, all party parliamentary group on nutrition for development
Steve Race Labour MP for Exeter; co-chair, all party parliamentary group on nutrition for development
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