Policy determinants affecting the hunger millennium development goal

Abstract

a b s t r a c tThe possible effect of Government Consumption (a component of Gross Domestic Product (GDP)) on attainment of the hunger Millennium Development Goal (MDG1) was analyzed by evaluating the effect of macroeconomic, social, demographic and policy variables on average undernourished population. Eighty-four developing countries with data available on undernourished population were included in an ecological study. Regression models were applied to explore possible determinants of Undernourished between 1990 and 2004 and consequent achievement of the projected 2004 MDG1. In 2004, 1.4% of the overall undernourished population in the studied countries [70.16 million people] was in excess of the projected level required to meet MDG1. The multiple linear regression showed significant associations between Undernourished and poverty levels, the Gini Index, rural population and Government Consumption. The multiple logistic regression showed significant associations between achievement of projected 2004 MDG1 levels and Government Consumption and the Gini Index. The significant associations between Undernourished and Government Consumption suggest that the effects of GDP components on social conditions call for more thorough research and that policymakers such as governments and international financial institutions need to ensure that changes in distributive and redistributive policies do not negatively affect the possibility of achieving MDG1.

Sulfur and Nitrogen Co-ordinately Improve Photosynthetic Efficiency, Growth and Proline Accumulation in Two Cultivars of Mustard Under Salt Stress

“…There are two main sources that contribute to the soil salinity: primary or natural cause resulting from weathering of minerals and soil derived from saline parent rocks [3], and secondary source of salinization is use of saline irrigation water, excessive application of chemical fertilizers, deforestation, overgrazing, or intensive cropping [3][4][5]. At present, its extent throughout the world is increasing regularly [6] and has now become a serious threat to sustainable agriculture [7][8][9]. According to an estimate by Food and Agriculture Organisation [10] over 6% of the world's land is salt affected.…”

Does Corruption Starve? An African Perspective

“…Pickett and Wilkinson (2015) confirm this hypothesis by providing strong evidence that income inequality affects people's well-being. Palma et al (2009) provide empirical support for this argument and show that countries characterised by widespread poverty and high income inequality are associated with a higher prevalence of hunger. Eini-Zinab et al (2020) share this view and show that countries with lower levels of income inequality experience a faster decline in hunger.…”

Does financial development contribute to the achievement of the “Zero Hunger” goal in Africa?

“…Whereas trade openness and democracy improve food security (see Dithmer & Abdulai, 2017), rising prices reduce purchasing power, increasing food insecurity. Regarding the effect of income inequality, Palma et al (2009) show that countries characterized by widespread poverty and high-income inequality are associated with a higher undernourishment. In line with AFSUN, 1 we expect a positive effect of urbanization on undernourishment due to inadequate infrastructure, the dependence of urban dwellers on purchased food, and the low quality of food sold in the informal food sector.…”