Is Eradicating World Hunger by 2030 Economically Feasible: A Comprehensive Analysis
The eradication of world hunger by 2030 is an ambitious goal, and this article delves into the economic feasibility of achieving Zero Hunger. From global trends to specific solutions, we examine the challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed.
TheCurrent State of Global Hunger
As of 2021, world hunger is rising, with significant factors such as population growth, poverty, and conflicts contributing to the issue. According to Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond and Poor Economics by Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, poverty is the principal cause of hunger and starvation. In India alone, an estimated 3.8 million children, or over 10,000 per day, have died due to poor nutrition, further exacerbating the problem.
The Role of Political Leadership and Corruption
Political actions and corruption are significant barriers to achieving Zero Hunger. As indicated, business interests and the whims of political leaders can hinder initiatives aimed at eradicating world hunger. Moreover, poverty, conflict, and hunger itself are interconnected. Politicians, such as Trump and Modi, have a pivotal role to play in addressing these issues and making necessary changes. The lack of political will, efficient distribution mechanisms, and increasing population are key factors contributing to the ongoing struggle.
Potential Solutions and Economic Strategies
To address world hunger, a bottom-up approach is necessary, involving both local and global initiatives. Here are some key strategies:
Conditional Cash Transfer Programs
Conditional cash transfer (CCT) programs can be a powerful tool. These programs provide financial incentives to communities in exchange for certain behaviors, such as sending children to school or ensuring regular doctor visits. According to a research project at Stanford, these programs can be scaled and made profitable. They can help create a pipeline of skilled workers, such as software engineers and designers, who can contribute to global economic development. One example is the 'Industry-Driven Conditional Cash Transfer' program, which involves paying people to learn complex skills and connecting them to well-paying jobs or successful new businesses.
Entrepreneurship and Skill Development
The majority world can seize significant opportunities in various sectors worldwide. For instance, the technology, agriculture, manufacturing, mining, tourism, transportation, construction, real estate, energy, banking, and fintech industries offer substantial GDP gains. By training and equipping individuals with the necessary skills and connecting them to global demand, the majority world can achieve greater economic growth and address poverty.
Global Economic Growth and Wealth Distribution
To achieve universal development, we need major economic growth equivalent to that seen in East Asia from 1970 to 2020. This can be achieved through market-driven CCT programs that combine conditional payments with industry demand for skilled talent. By focusing on sectors like software and IT, agriculture, and complex manufacturing, the majority world can create a significant positive impact. For example, paying individuals to learn software development can lead to new businesses and better-paying jobs, which, in turn, can enhance the economic well-being of entire communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while achieving Zero Hunger by 2030 is economically feasible, it requires a concerted effort from global leaders, politicians, and stakeholders. By addressing corruption, boosting political will, and implementing effective solutions like CCT programs, the majority world can tap into significant economic opportunities and make a substantial impact. The vision of 'Learning Dollars Talent' and the 'Industry-Driven Conditional Cash Transfer' program are concrete steps toward achieving this goal and creating a more equitable world.