Nutrition affects and defines the health of all people, rich and poor. Good nutritional status enables us to grow, develop, work, play, resist infection and realize our fullest potential as individuals and societies. Conversely, malnutrition makes us more vulnerable to disease and premature death. Proper nutrition and health are fundamental human rights.
Poverty is a major cause and consequence of ill health worldwide. Poverty, hunger and malnutrition stalk one another in a vicious circle, compromising health and wreaking havoc on the socioeconomic development of whole countries and entire continents. Nearly 30% of humanity, especially those in developing countries – infants, children, adolescents, adults, and older persons – bear this triple burden. This is a travesty of justice, an abrogation of the most basic human rights
A strong human rights approach is needed to bring on board the millions of people left behind in the 20th century’s health revolution. We must ensure that our values and our vision are anchored in human rights law – only then can they become reality for all people.