Global hunger falls for a third year, showing progress is possible

A new United Nations assessment says global hunger fell for a third consecutive year in 2025, showing that sustained progress is possible even during a difficult period for food systems.

The report estimates that 7.8% of the world’s population faced hunger, down from 8.1% in 2024 and 8.6% in 2022. Around 645 million people were affected — 14 million fewer than a year earlier and 43 million fewer than in 2022. Moderate or severe food insecurity also declined, affecting 86 million fewer people than in 2024.

The gains are not evenly shared. Africa still carries the heaviest burden, while women and rural communities remain more exposed to food insecurity.

That balance matters. The figures are encouraging because they prove policy, investment and stronger food systems can move the numbers in the right direction. They are also a reminder that progress must reach the places being left behind. Readers should care because lower hunger improves health, education, stability and opportunity across entire communities.