Prof. Dr. Haider Ali Al-Dulaimi
College of Administrative Sciences - Al-Mustaqbal University
Among the seventeen Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations, Goal 2 stands out as a humanitarian cry that transcends borders, languages, and cultures: “Zero Hunger.” It is not only a humanitarian goal, but also a foundation for human survival and dignity, and a starting point for achieving the remaining goals.
Hunger in the Twenty-First Century:
It may seem strange to talk about hunger in the age of technology and artificial intelligence, but the numbers don't lie. Millions of people around the world still suffer from malnutrition and food shortages, particularly in developing countries, conflict-affected countries, or those experiencing severe climate change.
Achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture are the core objectives of this noble humanitarian goal. The goal is not limited to feeding the hungry, but rather to building just and sustainable food systems that enable people to be self-reliant.
Hunger is not destiny: What does it mean to achieve Goal 2?
• Ending hunger by 2030 means that no child goes to bed without food.
• It means that every person, everywhere, has access to a healthy and sufficient diet.
• It means supporting small farmers, especially women and rural workers, to become more productive and participate in the market.
• It means developing agricultural systems that are resilient to climate change, drought, and floods.
Iraq as a Model: Challenges and Opportunities:
For countries like Iraq, achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2 represents both a real challenge and a significant opportunity. The country suffers from the effects of conflict, displacement, climate change, and water scarcity, yet it possesses huge agricultural potential and a long history of food production.
Transitioning toward smart and sustainable agriculture, updating support policies for farmers, and developing food supply chains can make Iraq a self-sufficient and even a food exporter.
How can we all contribute to achieving this goal?
• Rationalizing food consumption and reducing waste.
• Supporting local products.
• Raising awareness of proper nutrition.
• Supporting agricultural and humanitarian initiatives.
Towards a world where everyone is fed:
Eliminating hunger is not an idealistic slogan, but rather a moral, humanitarian, and developmental imperative. Achieving the second goal of the Sustainable Development Goals is a shared responsibility between governments, civil society, the private sector, and even individuals. Hunger does not wait, and it should not wait.
Let's create a world where no one goes hungry.
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