Pakistan

Despite progress, the nutrition and hunger situation remain serious in Pakistan, with a ranking of 109th out of 127 countries in the 2024 Global Hunger Index.

It is ranked as the eighth most vulnerable country to the impact of climate change, and has been subject to unprecedented floods. The country is enduring one of its most devastating monsoon seasons in recent years - over 5 million people are affected by intense floods and more than 870 lives have been lost. As rains persist and rivers swell, the number of people affected is expected to rise further.  

It struggles with high multidimensional poverty. Nearly half of an average household’s monthly expenditure goes towards food and 82 percent of the population cannot afford a healthy diet. 

Women and girls face significant barriers in accessing government services due to deep-rooted social and cultural norms. Nationwide, over 26 million children aged 5 to 16 are out of school – more than half of them girls.

A total 18 percent of children under 5 suffer from acute malnutrition, and around 40 percent of children are stunted (impaired growth due to malnutrition).

Record-high food and fuel prices, exacerbated by climate change affecting agriculture and infrastructure, have taken a toll on Pakistan’s most vulnerable people.

The World Food Programme (WFP) works with the Government and partners to improve food security and nutrition among the poorest households and the most vulnerable communities across the country. In response to ongoing and severe floods, WFP is working with the Government and partners to deliver emergency support and early recovery assistance. 

To complement life-saving humanitarian assistance in emergency contexts and gradually lessen dependence on external assistance, WFP is investing in building long-term resilience through stunting prevention, disaster risk reduction, strengthening of food systems and livelihood activities.