Global Hunger Index

Understanding hunger around the world 

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is an annual report that measures and tracks hunger at the global, regional and national levels. Every country receives a score, from low to extremely alarming, showing where hunger is most serious and how it is changing. It is published by Welthungerhilfe, Helvetas and the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict. 

Using data to combat hunger 

The GHI shows whether the world is winning or losing the fight against hunger, and where the need is greatest. It tracks change over time, highlights gaps in data, and draws on the indicators used to measure progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger). Reliable data like this helps governments, donors and organizations embed food security in policy, sustain data funding and reverse aid cuts.

Global Hunger Index 2026: No security without food security 

For nearly two decades, the world made steady progress in reducing hunger. That progress has now stalled and, in many places, reversed. The 2026 Global Hunger Index (GHI) reveals a troubling reality: Hunger is rising again amid escalating conflict, climate shocks, economic uncertainty and declining humanitarian support.  

The report argues that food security must no longer be viewed solely as a humanitarian or development challenge. It is a foundation of stability, resilience and peace. Without food security, there can be no lasting security. 

The world is moving off track 

The 2026 Global Hunger Index score stands at 18.1, which is classified as “moderate” hunger. This figure marks a reversal of years of progress. Since 2018, global levels of undernourishment, child stunting and child wasting have increased, reflecting the growing impact of overlapping global crises. 

Today: 

• 36 countries face serious levels of hunger.  

• 8 countries experience alarming levels of hunger.  

• Hunger has worsened in 32 countries since 2018.  

• 57 countries are not on track to reach low hunger by 2030.  

But progress remains possible. Since 2018, 31 countries have reduced their GHI scores by at least 10 percent, demonstrating that sustained investment, political commitment and coordinated action can make a difference. 

How is the GHI calculated? 

Each country’s score combines four indicators: 

• Undernourishment: the share of the population that does not get enough calories (one-third of the score) 

• Child mortality: the share of children who die before age five (one-third) 

• Child stunting: the share of children under five who are too short for their age (one-sixth) 

• Child wasting: the share of children under five who are too thin for their height (one-sixth) 

The result is a score from 0 (no hunger) to 100 (the worst possible). Scores of 9.9 or lower are low, 10 to 19.9 moderate, 20 to 34.9 serious, 35 to 49.9 alarming, and 50 or higher extremely alarming.

Download

Download the reports for essays on what these findings mean across regional contexts, as well as policy recommendations for governments, donor organizations and other actors.  

Partners

The peer-reviewed report is produced annually and is co-published by Welthungerhilfe, the Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict, and Helvetas.