Pakistan ranks lowest in South Asia on hunger index amid rising food prices

Pakistan has recorded the poorest performance in South Asia in the 2026 global hunger index (GHI), reflecting mounting food insecurity driven by economic instability, rising food prices, climate-related disasters and international conflicts, according to a report by Dawn. Titled “No Security Without Food Security”, the report was jointly prepared by German aid organisation Welthungerhilfe, the institute for international law of peace and armed conflict at Ruhr university Bochum, and swiss organisation helvetas. According to the news agency ANI, the findings indicate that progress in reducing hunger across South Asia has largely stagnated, while Pakistan and Afghanistan have experienced a deterioration in conditions since 2018.

Economic crisis and food inflation worsen Pakistan’s hunger situation

Pakistan’s economic challenges and persistent food inflation have eroded household purchasing power, making it increasingly difficult for families to access sufficient and nutritious food. The report noted that Pakistan’s undernourishment indicator had deteriorated from a low level in 2018 to a medium level. Meanwhile, child wasting has approached the threshold associated with the high category, underscoring continuing concerns over child nutrition.

Hunger reduction stalls across South Asia

South Asia recorded an overall global hunger index score of 23.5, placing the region in the serious category. While the score represents an improvement from 37.5 in 2000, the report suggests that much of the progress was achieved before 2018. Over the past two decades, Pakistan and Afghanistan have moved out of the alarming hunger category. However, persistent levels of child malnutrition continue to pose a significant challenge in both countries. Child stunting has continued to decline in Pakistan, while Afghanistan has recorded a slight increase in the indicator since 2018. Child mortality rates have improved in both countries, falling from very high levels in 2000 to medium levels in the latest assessment.

Extreme weather threatens regional food production

The report also drew attention to the growing impact of extreme weather events on agricultural production and food security across South Asia. Heavy rainfall and flooding damaged crops in parts of Pakistan and Bangladesh. In Afghanistan, inadequate rainfall and unusually high temperatures disrupted the cereal-growing season in 2026. These climate-related pressures could further aggravate food shortages and prolong acute food insecurity across the region, according to Dawn.

Millions across South Asia continue to face undernourishment

Estimates from the food and agriculture organisation (FAO) indicate that approximately 218 million people across South Asia, including Iran, experienced undernourishment between 2023 and 2025. This represents roughly one-third of the global population affected by undernourishment during the period, highlighting the scale of the region’s food security challenge. The findings underscore the need for sustained efforts to address economic vulnerabilities, improve access to nutritious food and strengthen agricultural resilience against climate-related shocks.