World leaders from the Group of 20 inaugurated a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty on Monday during the opening session of their 19th Heads of State and Government Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The alliance, signed by all member nations, empowers a Task Force to implement activities between 2025 and 2030 aimed at eradicating hunger and reducing poverty worldwide.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who hosted the event, stated that the alliance already has the support of over 80 countries, along with numerous government and civil society organizations.
“The goal of this alliance is to gather funds and knowledge to implement public policies and social technologies that have proven effective in reducing hunger and poverty globally,” he said.
President Silva highlighted Brazil’s leadership in the initiative, showcasing successful programs like Zero Hunger and Bolsa Família, which he launched during his presidency from 2003 to 2010.
“It’s not just about doing justice. This is an essential condition for building more prosperous societies and a world of peace. Ending hunger is also one of the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations for 2030,” Silva explained.
He added that UN institutions, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Food Programme, are involved in addressing these issues. However, Silva emphasized the need for a fresh initiative to accelerate investments.
Quoting Brazilian physician and nutritionist Josué de Castro, Silva remarked, “Hunger and poverty are not the result of scarcity, but a biological expression of social ills.”
Silva also pointed out the contrast between global food production and military spending. “The world produces almost 6 billion tons of food each year while spending 2.4 trillion dollars on military expenses,” he said.
The alliance, which will operate from Brasília and Rome, has received financial commitments, including a $25 billion loan promise from the Inter-American Development Bank for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Silva expressed concern over the worsening global situation, citing armed conflicts, climate emergencies, social inequalities, and the FAO’s report of 733 million people going hungry.
“Those who have always been invisible will now be at the centre of the international agenda,” he assured.
Silva also extended an invitation to countries outside the G20 to join the alliance, emphasizing its mission to create a fairer and more sustainable future.
