UN’s Global Report on Food Crises
In 2024, the world faced an alarming rise in acute hunger. The UN’s Global Report on Food Crises brought into light that over 295 million people across 53 nations experienced severe food shortages. This marked the sixth consecutive year of increasing hunger levels. Conflict, economic shocks, and climate change were identified as primary contributors to this crisis. The situation is particularly dire in regions like the Gaza Strip, South Sudan, and Haiti.
Current State of Global Hunger
The report revealed that 22.6% of the assessed population faced acute food insecurity in 2024. This was an increase of 13.7 million from the previous year. The number of individuals experiencing famine rose to 1.9 million, more than double the figure from 2023. Conflict was the leading cause, impacting around 140 million people in 20 countries.
Key Drivers of Food Insecurity
Conflict and violence were identified as the main drivers of hunger in many regions. Areas such as Gaza and Sudan experienced catastrophic food shortages due to ongoing conflicts. Additionally, economic shocks like inflation and currency devaluation affected 59.4 million people across 15 countries. These factors contributed to a worsening food crisis, especially in Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Yemen.
Role of Humanitarian Aid
The report warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, as humanitarian aid funding is projected to decline . Major donor countries have reduced their contributions, which has disrupted operations in critical regions. The report indicated that funding for humanitarian food sectors could drop by up to 45%. This reduction in aid is expected to exacerbate existing food insecurity.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Children and women are disproportionately affected by hunger. In conflict zones, they often bear the brunt of food shortages and blockades. The report marks the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect these vulnerable groups. Without immediate action, the situation is likely to deteriorate further.
Economic Factors Influencing Hunger
Economic instability has emerged as factor in food insecurity. The global economy is facing high uncertainty due to various issues, including US tariffs and a weakening dollar. These economic shocks have led to increased hunger levels, particularly in regions already struggling with conflict and climate challenges.
Climate Change and Food Security
Extreme weather events have also been linked to rising hunger levels. The report noted that 18 countries faced food insecurity due to climate-related disruptions. This marks the interconnectedness of climate change and food security, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address both issues.
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