In a vote at the United Nations, member states have overwhelmingly supported the extension of the Decade of Action on Nutrition, a critical initiative aimed at combating malnutrition worldwide. The resolution, co-presented by Brazil and France, was met with approval from 158 countries. However, the United States, under the Trump administration, stood alone as the only vote against the measure.
UN Resolution and Brazilian Advocacy
The resolution, which extends the Decade of Action on Nutrition until 2030, aligns with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. During the presentation of the proposal, the Brazilian government highlighted the alarming global statistics on malnutrition, emphasizing that one-third of the world’s population is affected by this issue, juxtaposed with shocking levels of food waste.
Brazil’s delegation underscored the moral imperative to address malnutrition, stating that it should be viewed not as an act of charity, but as a matter of justice. “We should all be alarmed and, more than that, ashamed that malnutrition is so widespread, encompassing undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overweight or obesity,” said the Brazilian representatives.
Trump Administration’s Stance
The Trump administration’s opposition to the resolution is rooted in its reluctance to engage with UN development “agendas”. In an official note, the white house stated:
“This resolution contains terms and concepts that promote immoral discrimination and advance harmful gender ideology in defiance of biological reality, both of which conflict with U.S. policies. President Trump set a clear and overdue course correction on “gender ideology” and we must acknowledge the biological realities of sex to support the needs and perspectives of women and girls.”
A very much expected transphobic message from U.S.’ current government.
Multilateralism and Commitment
The Brazilian government, with backing from French President Macron’s stance on effective multilateralism, argued that the resolution represents a renewed commitment to unified efforts in eradicating all forms of malnutrition by 2030. It was made clear that the initiative goes beyond merely extending a deadline; it is a reinvigorated pledge to tackle a global scourge.
“The fight against hunger and malnutrition is not just about setting goals; it’s about recognizing the interconnectedness of social protection, education, health, and access to clean water and sanitation,” the delegation from Brazil stated.
Conclusion and Implications
In closing remarks, Brazil’s government pointed out the dire consequences of ignoring global malnutrition: “Children cannot learn if they are hungry. A community cannot thrive if its members are malnourished. A world that overlooks these truths will remain trapped in cycles of instability, inequality, and despair.”
The resolution’s adoption, with near unanimous global support, signifies a collective recognition of the urgency to address nutritional challenges. It also serves as a reminder of the strength found in international cooperation, despite the current political climate that saw the US stand in stark contrast to the rest of the world on this issue.
