Lula Launches Global Alliance Against Hunger at G20 Summit in Brazil

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva inaugurated the G20 summit by launching a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, addressing the alarming number of 733 million undernourished individuals worldwide. The initiative received support from 81 countries. This summit, held in Rio de Janeiro, marks a critical push toward collective global action to combat hunger, despite initial resistance from Argentina’s leadership.

In an inaugural address at the G20 summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva unveiled a new alliance aimed at eradicating hunger, a dire issue he termed the “ultimate symbol of our collective tragedy.” With the G20 presidency rotating to Brazil, President Lula’s initiative seeks to confront the stark realities of world hunger, emphasizing that over 733 million people currently suffer from undernourishment despite global food production meeting the needs of the population. Addressing a gathering that included leaders such as Joe Biden, Xi Jinping, and Emmanuel Macron, Lula urged collective action against this prevalent issue, establishing the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty as the cornerstone of Brazil’s G20 presidency. Lula’s reflections on his first G20 meeting in 2008 illuminated his concerns regarding worsening global conditions, pointing to an unprecedented number of armed conflicts and deepening social inequalities. His commitment to addressing hunger received backing from 81 countries; however, initial resistance from Argentina—led by far-right President Javier Milei—simmered down following negotiations. This G20 summit marked the first face-to-face interaction between Messrs. Lula and Milei, characterized by visible tension during their handshake. With the Global Alliance now featuring 148 signatories—including 82 countries, numerous international organizations, and philanthropic entities—Lula expressed hope that the summit would be defined by the courage to confront and transform the grim reality of societal hunger and poverty.

The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty initiative arises amid escalating global food insecurity, with nearly 733 million individuals currently suffering from hunger, underscoring the urgency of collective action proposed by leaders at the G20 summit. The G20, comprising 19 member nations plus the European Union, serves as a pivotal platform for discourse on economic cooperation and international development. This ongoing dialogue is integral as countries grapple with challenges including armed conflicts, environmental crises, and increasing inequalities.

In summary, President Lula’s launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty during the G20 summit exemplifies a profound commitment to addressing one of the most pressing global issues—hunger. Despite initial hesitations from certain nations, Lula’s decisive call to action and the subsequent broad support for the initiative reflect a collective recognition of the need for urgent and unified solutions. The potential impact of this alliance, with widespread backing, may pave the way for critical advancements in alleviating poverty and hunger on a global scale.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com