THE LAST WORD
By Pat Coughlan
Hunger, unfortunately, continues to afflict millions around the world, even though global food production consistently exceeds demand. I find it baffling that, in a world of plenty, so many still go to bed hungry. I find it hard to take the ads on television asking for a few euro to help relieve hunger when I know that there is plenty of food out there. Unequal distribution, food waste, conflicts, poverty, and discrimination all play their part. Addressing hunger requires not just immediate solutions but a holistic approach to systemic change and equitable access to resources.
Back in my days lecturing on social and economic issues, it was a must that I teach my students about the concept of ‘Laissez-faire capitalism’. I wonder how many people today know the meaning of the phrase.
Laissez-faire capitalism has its roots in the 18th century. It emerged as a reaction against heavy-handed government controls. The Scottish economist Adam Smith said that the market did not need any regulation because it had an “invisible hand” guiding it. A sort of fairy godmother that slapped the hands of those marketeers that were bold. The idea was simple: let the market run free, and prosperity would follow. But, as history shows, this hands-off approach often led to stark inequalities and unchecked greed.
It’s maddening to think that, while there’s an abundance of food, so many still can’t get their hands on it. The crux of the issue lies in how food is distributed. Poor infrastructure, economic gaps, belligerents in wars and logistical nightmares all play their part. It’s like having a feast but no way to get to the table. Understanding these hurdles is key to ensuring everyone gets their fair share.
It’s shocking how much food gets wasted before it even reaches our plates. From farms to supermarkets, inefficiencies abound. I’ve seen perfectly good produce discarded due to cosmetic imperfections or improper storage. Market dynamics often force farmers to dump surplus crops. By tackling these issues head-on, we can redirect this wasted bounty to those who need it most, including in our own country, thereby reducing hunger and promoting sustainability.
In conflict zones, the impact on food systems is devastating. I’ve seen how wars displace farmers, destroy infrastructure, and halt agricultural activities. It’s heartbreaking to witness communities that once thrived on their land now struggling to find their next meal. The activities of Israel in the West Bank and Gaza are prime examples. Peace-building is crucial, not just for stability but for rebuilding these shattered food systems and ensuring sustainable access to food in post-conflict regions.
Poverty is a relentless beast, trapping people in a vicious cycle of food insecurity. I’ve seen firsthand how limited purchasing power means families can’t afford nutritious food. And then there’s the infrastructure — or lack thereof. Poor roads and facilities cripple agricultural productivity, leaving rural communities stranded. By tackling poverty head-on and investing in infrastructure, we can pave the way to better food security and brighter futures.
I’ve seen how discrimination and social injustice can limit access to food for so many. Gender, ethnicity, caste, and socioeconomic status often intersect, creating barriers for marginalised communities. It’s disheartening to witness such inequality.
I’ve often wondered how much of our hunger problem stems from a lack of education. Without proper knowledge about nutrition and sustainable farming, communities can’t make the best choices. Imagine if we invested in educational programmes that taught people how to grow their own food and eat healthily. We’d see a massive shift in reducing food waste and boosting agricultural productivity.
But I ask: “Why governments don’t step up more to tackle hunger.” Limited intervention and weak policies leave small-scale farmers struggling and food systems vulnerable. We are back to ‘Lassez Faire’ again.
It’s clear that hunger persists despite our world producing more than enough food. It’s a tangled web of unequal distribution, food waste, conflicts, poverty, discrimination, and weak government policies. Tackling hunger demands a holistic approach, embracing systemic change, sustainable farming, and fair access to resources.
By facing these challenges head-on, we can dream of a world where no one goes to bed hungry.
