Global Hunger Index

Most recent values

Definition, Source, and Methodology

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a multidimensional measure that tracks hunger levels by combining indicators of undernourishment, child wasting, child stunting, and child mortality. Scored on a 100-point scale (where 0 = no hunger and 100 = extreme hunger), the GHI reflects the severity of food insecurity and malnutrition within a population. This indicator helps assess progress (or regression) in combating hunger and informs policies targeting food access, nutrition, and health systems.

An analysis of the GHI was conducted for country groups using population-weighted averages to account for each nation’s demographic size. This methodology ensures that larger populations have a proportionally greater influence on regional scores, providing a representative overview of hunger burdens. Results reveal disparities in food security across regions, with insights into underlying causes (e.g., conflict, climate shocks, or economic instability). Data are sourced from the Global Hunger Index annual report (peer-reviewed and jointly published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe).

Source:

• Global Hunger Index (GHI) 2024 Report, jointly published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, https://www.globalhungerindex.org. 
• Population data sourced from the World Bank, "Population, Total," https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL.

Discussion

The Global Developing World recorded a Global Hunger Index (GHI) score of 14.5 in 2024, with regional variation. Emerging and Developing Asia (13.43) and the Middle East and Central Asia (13.9) recorded similar levels, while Latin America and the Caribbean (7.39) recorded lower levels and Sub-Saharan Africa (26.11) the highest. Lower GHI scores indicate better outcomes. Results are weighted by population, and countries are grouped according to the International Monetary Fund classification. GHI scores and rankings are not comparable across years due to GHI methodological changes between reporting periods.

Why it matters for the OPEC Fund

The Global Hunger Index reflects undernourishment, child stunting, child wasting, and child mortality. The OPEC Fund contributes to improved food and nutrition outcomes through operations across priority areas as outlined in the Review and Update of OPEC Fund Strategic Framework 2030—specifically Human Capital, Institutional Capacity, Private Sector and Trade, and Food Security and Climate Action. This indicator aligns with SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality).