Asia

Abstract

This chapter begins with a broad outline of hunger and malnutrition in Asia and then turns to the central causes of food insecurity. Emphasis is placed on the countries of South and Southeast Asia where malnutrition rates are highest. A range of economic, political, and environmental factors undermine the nutritional well-being of millions of people throughout the region. Widespread poverty and rapid population growth, in particular, are placing enormous pressures on the natural environments and resources that are needed for sustainable food production. The last section reviews multilateral efforts to meet the nutritional needs of poor communities in Asia. While food aid is provided in emergency situations, especially in response to the natural disasters that frequently strike the region, most resources are invested in projects designed to improve agricultural productivity, promote rural development, and preserve natural environments.