Action on Under-Nutrition in Pakistan: Opportunities and Barriers
Abstract
Undernutrition rates in Pakistan have remained unchanged for over half a century.
Success in tackling under-nutrition relies on cross-sectoral action across health, food,
agriculture, poverty, water and sanitation. A recent positive momentum has involved
loose inter-sector coalitions in the provinces supported by international development
partners. However, weak understanding of nutrition, low ownership, minimal
allocations, siloed working of sectors and lack of effective homegrown coalitions
constrain meaningful action. Pakistan requires political championing by the executive
leadership, central convening structures in the provinces and common policy and
monitoring frameworks.