Middle East and North Africa

National policy responses in the Middle East and North Africa need to consider the region’s double burden of malnutrition along with other vulnerabilities, including climate change, water scarcity, conflict, and rising public debt from government spending. Social protection must effectively target the most vulnerable groups, including women, who account for a large share of the poor. Countries in the region should reinforce their investments and efforts to increase the resilience of their food systems. They should also consider reforming their food subsidies to improve diets and reduce vulnerability to shocks. Rethinking consumer policies and encouraging the produc­tion of healthier and more sustainable diets are equally important.