The COVID-19 pandemic — and the related economic crisis and disrupted food and health systems — will likely severely worsen all forms of malnutrition globally. In the short to medium term, micronutrient deficiencies, child wasting and stunting, and overweight and obesity are all expected to surge, stemming the tide of recent progress toward achieving the World Health Assembly’s Global Nutrition Targets 2025. This seminar will analyze the situation, focusing on anticipated impacts on maternal and child nutrition, diets, reach of nutrition interventions, and mortality. Speakers will also reflect on positive adaptations that could help rebuild stronger health, economic, and food systems, and thereby protect nutrition and health.

Opening Remarks

• Johan Swinnen, Director General, IFPRI

Speakers

• Rasmi Avula, Research Fellow, IFPRI (Presentation)
• Robert Black, Director, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health (Presentation)
• Corinna Hawkes, Director, Centre for Food Policy, City, University of London (Presentation)
• Marie Ruel, Director of Poverty, Health, and Nutrition Division, IFPRI (Presentation)

Closing Remarks

• John McDermott, Director, CGIAR Research Program on Agriculture for Nutrition and Health (A4NH)

Moderator

• Purnima Menon, Senior Research Fellow, IFPRI