Understanding the Global Hunger Index Indicators

The Global Hunger Index (GHI) is a tool designed to comprehensively measure and track hunger at global, regional, and national levels. The GHI score for each country is calculated based on a formula that combines four component indicators. These indicators capture different dimensions of hunger and malnutrition.

Key Indicators Used by IFPRI for the Global Hunger Index

The question asks about the indicators used by IFPRI (International Food Policy Research Institute) to compute the Global Hunger Index Report. While IFPRI was a key developer and publisher of the GHI, it is now jointly published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe. Regardless of the publishing body, the methodology, including the set of indicators, has been consistent. Let's examine the indicators listed in the question:

1. Undernourishment: This indicator measures the share of the population whose caloric intake is insufficient to meet the dietary energy requirements. It reflects the overall food supply situation and access to food for the population as a whole.
2. Child stunting: This indicator measures the share of children under the age of five who have low height for their age. Stunting is an indicator of chronic undernutrition, meaning a child has suffered from inadequate nutrition over a long period.
3. Child mortality: This indicator measures the mortality rate of children under the age of five. High child mortality rates can be a consequence of poor nutritional status and unhealthy environments, reflecting the severity of the nutrition and health situation affecting young children.

These three indicators are indeed fundamental components used in calculating the Global Hunger Index. In fact, the GHI uses a total of four indicators. The fourth indicator, not listed in the question, is Child wasting.

Based on the indicators provided in the question, all three – Undernourishment, Child stunting, and Child mortality – are used in the calculation of the Global Hunger Index. Therefore, the correct answer includes all three.

Global Hunger Index Calculation and Components

The Global Hunger Index score is calculated as the weighted average of four component indicators. Each indicator contributes to the final score:

• Undernourishment (weight: 33.3%)
• Child stunting (weight: 16.7%)
• Child wasting (weight: 16.7%)
• Child mortality (weight: 33.3%)

A higher GHI score indicates a more severe hunger situation. Scores are calculated on a 100-point scale, with 0 being the best score (no hunger) and 100 being the worst.

Revision Table: Global Hunger Index Indicators

Additional Information on Global Hunger Index

While the question mentions IFPRI, it's important to note the current landscape of the GHI report. Since 2006, the report has been jointly published by Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe. IFPRI was involved in the initial development and publication. The GHI provides scores and categorizes countries into different severity levels of hunger (low, moderate, serious, alarming, extremely alarming).

The index serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, researchers, and non-governmental organizations to understand the multifaceted nature of hunger, track progress towards reducing it, and advocate for necessary action.