The Arab region faces a number of structural challenges to food security and nutrition. These include high population growth rates, a limited natural resource base, especially with regard to land and water, the impact of climate change and the heavy reliance of international markets on food imports. The region also has a relatively high prevalence of undernourishment, caused by nutrient deficiencies and is relatively unique in the sense that obesity and the problems associated with it are on the increase.

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  "description" : "The Statistical Abstract of the Arab Region presents time series statistics and indicators on core areas of economic and social development in ESCWA member states. Issue 34 consists of twelve chapters, each focusing on one of the following topics: population, labour force, education and illiteracy, health, gender equality, air pollution, national accounts, energy, industry, transport, foreign trade, financial statistics and prices, and information and communications technology. Facts and figures of the Statistical Abstract were drawn primarily from national statistical sources in Arab countries, responses to questionnaires prepared by ESCWA and data issued by international organizations, mainly by specialized United Nations entities.",
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  "version" : "No. 34",
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     The Abstract presents socioeconomic data from the region at the macro-level, covering many topics. The figures were drawn from national and international sources.



ESCWA is mandated to prepare a regional report on the 2030 Agenda - The Arab Sustainable Development Report - at regular intervals in support of follow-up and review at the regional level.