2011 Global Hunger Index

The Global Hunger Index is a comprehensive measure of hunger worldwide and by country and region. Although the proportion of hungry people around the world has declined since 1990, global hunger remains at a level characterized as “serious.” Global Hunger Index scores vary greatly across regions and countries.


This year’s report gives special attention to the issue of food prices. In recent years, world food markets have been characterized by rising and more volatile prices that leave many poor people unable to pay for all the goods and services they need. Price increases can also lead poor people to shift to cheaper, less nutritious foods. Addressing the problem of food price spikes and excessive volatility requires action both to reduce volatility and to buffer the most vulnerable people from the worst effects of higher and more variable prices.


By drawing attention to the countries and regions most severely affected by hunger, the Global Hunger Index, published by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in collaboration with Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, aims to trigger action to reduce hunger.