Wasting is characterised by extreme weight loss, resulting in low weight for height and/or low mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) with or without the presence of bilateral oedema. While global efforts have focused on providing treatment for children with wasting – in both development and emergency contexts – access to prevention and treatment services still require more effort, collaboration, and urgent attention to scale up solutions to protect the most vulnerable children.
The Wasting Global Thematic Working Group
The Wasting Global Thematic Working Group (GTWG) was established after GNC partners identified a need for a consensus driven process for developing timely interim guidance and expert advice on emerging nutrition technical issues – especially those in specific areas where guidance is lacking or evidence is inconclusive. The GTWG is a space for organisations to share best practices, hold transparent technical debates, and collaborate on guidance and resources to fill gaps identified by GNC partners.
The GTWG is made up of more than 40 experts in the area of wasting. Together, they represent more than 20 organisations in this space, while some work independently. The Working Group is co-chaired by UNICEF and International Medical Corps (IMC).
Key Activities
- Develop interim consensus-driven guidance (or other technical resources) in response to emerging technical issues based on review of evidence, knowledge of ongoing research, experiences, and expert opinions
- Capture evidence and programme learnings, including learnings during the implementation of guidance or adaptation in the face of changing and/or challenging contexts
- Provide a platform for technical discussion and information sharing around wasting
- Create temporary subgroups if and when a need presents itself for deeper exploration into a theme or issue related to wasting
- Provide technical in-country and remote support via the GNC Helpdesk, when required or requested
NEW Moderate Wasting Sub-Working GroupThe Moderate Wasting Sub-Working Group (MWSWG) held its first meeting on 4 March 2026, marking an important step forward in strengthening support for moderate wasting in humanitarian settings. The group operates under the Wasting Global Technical Working Group and is co-chaired by WFP, UNICEF, and ENN during its first year. The MWSWG supports countries, partners, and practitioners to better understand, adapt, and operationalise WHO recommendations on moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) across humanitarian contexts. Its focus is on identifying and addressing priority gaps in guidance, tools, and learning related to programme design, implementation, and monitoring. Responding directly to country and regional needs, the group tackles urgent operational questions, brings together emerging evidence, and maps initiatives and alternative approaches for the management of moderate wasting using local food solutions. It also develops practical interim guidance to support effective and context-appropriate MAM programming. The MWSWG works closely with existing technical platforms to promote learning and exchange. Interested in contributing or learning more? Get in touch with the MWSWG co-chairs:
|
Useful links
- Briefing note on proposed MUAC cut-offs for children 5 to <19 years for screening for uncomplicated Severe Acute Malnutrition
- Interim Programmatic Adaptations for Wasting Programming in Resource-constrained Settings
- Global Action Plan on Child Wasting
- Joint Action to Stop Wasting - This briefing note is available in English and French
- Quick Guide on Admissions Criteria, Family MUAC, CHW Treatment of Wasting, and Modified Dosage
- Scaling Up Early Detection and Treatment of Severe Wasting Programming for Children: Lessons Learned and Opportunities for the Next Decade
- Treatment of Wasting Using Simplified Approaches
