The UN’s Zero Hunger Challenge (ZHC) is a global declaration that “invites all nations to work for a future where everyone enjoys their right to food and all food systems are resilient.” UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon launched ZHC at the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) on June 20, 2012 to end hunger and ensure access to nutritious food for all.
The challenge asserts that hunger can be eliminated in our lifetimes, but that it “requires comprehensive efforts to ensure that every man, woman and child enjoy their Right to Adequate Food; women are empowered; priority is given to family farming, and food systems everywhere are sustainable and resilient.”
The challenge of Zero Hunger means:
- 100% access to adequate food all year round
- Zero stunted children less than 2 years old
- All food systems are sustainable
- 100% increase in smallholder productivity and income
- Zero loss or waste of food
Meeting the Zero Hunger Challenge “involves investments in agriculture, rural development, decent work, social protection and equality of opportunity. It will make a major contribution to peace and stability and to the reduction of poverty. It will contribute to better nutrition for all – especially women from the beginning of pregnancy and children under the age of two.”
In this period of 1,000 days, from the first day of a woman’s pregnancy to the child’s second birthday, good nutrition is vital for developing a child’s cognitive capacity and physical growth.
The Hunger Project is proud to be a part of the Zero Hunger Challenge. To support ZHC, an independent initiative called the Community for Zero Hunger was formed — a community in which our own Executive Vice President John Coonrod plays a role on the advisory board.
To take part in the challenge, The Hunger Project invites you to…
Join the global conversation around #ZeroHunger:
- Twitter: Use #ZeroHunger and follow @ZeroHunger for global health & development updates.
- YouTube
- Google+
Take Action:
Anyone can sign the ZHC Declaration; governments, NGOs, businesses and concerned citizens!
To find out more information and to see other government agencies and NGOs participating in the Zero Hunger Challenge, visit the Zero Hunger Challenge website.
