A Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty was recently launched during the G20 Leaders Summit in Brazil, emphasizing global cooperation to eradicate hunger and poverty, aligned with the Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition 2023.
Introduction
The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, introduced at the G20 Leaders Summit in Brazil, aims to address critical challenges related to hunger and poverty, two of the most pressing issues facing humanity. This voluntary coalition seeks to mobilize global resources and foster collaboration among governments, international organizations, NGOs, and other stakeholders to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger). The initiative aligns with the Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security and Nutrition 2023, adopted at the G20 New Delhi Summit, showcasing a commitment to inclusive development and sustainable solutions.
Key Features of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty
Purpose and Pillars
Focuses on eradicating hunger (SDG 2), poverty (SDG 1), and reducing inequalities (SDG 10).
Operates through three pillars: knowledge sharing, financial mobilization, and implementation at the country level.
Advocates for sustainable food systems and resilient agricultural practices.
Objectives
Political Commitment: Mobilize global political will to address hunger and poverty.
Resource Mobilization: Integrate public and private financing for targeted programs.
Policy Framework: Provide a governance structure supporting country-led actions.
Program Implementation: Promote diverse strategies, including social protection, school feeding programs, and sustainable farming.
Collaboration: Foster partnerships among stakeholders, including FAO, UNICEF, and World Bank.
Inclusive Strategies
Focuses on vulnerable groups, such as women, children, indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities.
Emphasizes traditional farming practices like millet cultivation to build resilient food systems.
Promotes gender equity by addressing disparities in food insecurity.
Encourages innovative approaches to increase adaptation financing for smallholder farmers.
Leverages indigenous knowledge for sustainable agricultural solutions.
Financing Mechanisms
Blended Financing: Combines concessional and market-based funding for impactful projects.
Official Development Assistance (ODA): Urges developed nations to honor financial commitments to developing countries.
Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs): Enhances their capacity to support poverty alleviation programs.
Special Drawing Rights (SDRs): Advocates for voluntary redistribution to nations in need.
Innovative Solutions: Encourages partnerships for mobilizing resources for country-led initiatives.
Relevance to SDGs
Supports global efforts to close financing gaps for SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).
Aligns with the broader sustainability agenda by integrating climate-resilient agriculture.
Encourages social inclusion to reduce inequalities and empower marginalized communities.
Strengthens international cooperation for addressing systemic challenges.
Promotes long-term resilience in food systems through adaptive measures.
India’s Role in Hunger and Poverty Alleviation
Poverty Alleviation Initiatives
Lifted 250 million people out of poverty between 2014-2024.
Provided financial and social inclusion through credit access for 300 million women micro-entrepreneurs.
Food Security Programs
Ensures free food grains for over 800 million people.
Implements nutritional schemes like Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0 for women and children.
Health and Social Protection
Offers free health insurance to 550 million people under Ayushman Bharat-PM-JAY.
Focuses on senior citizens with health insurance and financial support.
Agricultural Support
Benefits 40 million farmers through Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
Provides assistance worth $40 billion to 110 million farmers under PM-KISAN.
Develops over 2000 climate-resilient crop varieties.
Global Contributions
Extended humanitarian assistance to countries like Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Advocates for traditional farming methods and innovative solutions in global forums.
Conclusion
The launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty is a transformative step toward addressing systemic issues of hunger and poverty. With its inclusive approach, innovative financing, and emphasis on vulnerable populations, the initiative aligns with the global sustainability agenda. India’s success in poverty alleviation and food security showcases a model of resilience and innovation, contributing significantly to the alliance's vision. By fostering collaboration and political commitment, the alliance has the potential to achieve SDGs 1 and 2, ensuring a future free from hunger and poverty.