What's happened
The 2025 Global Report on Food Crises reveals that acute food insecurity affected over 295 million people in 2024, marking a sixth consecutive year of rising hunger. Conflict, economic shocks, and climate extremes are the primary drivers, with Sudan and Gaza facing catastrophic conditions. UN officials warn of dire consequences without urgent action.
What's behind the headline?
Key Drivers of Food Insecurity
- Conflict: Nearly 140 million people are affected by conflict-related hunger, particularly in Sudan and Gaza.
- Economic Shocks: Inflation and currency devaluation have pushed millions into food crises, notably in Syria and Yemen.
- Climate Extremes: Droughts and floods, exacerbated by climate change, have impacted food production in 18 countries.
Implications
- Humanitarian Response: The UN warns that without increased funding and support, the situation will worsen, leading to more famine declarations.
- Global Responsibility: The report highlights a failure of international systems to address hunger, calling for urgent humanitarian action to prevent further loss of life.
- Future Outlook: As funding decreases and conflicts persist, the number of people facing acute food insecurity is likely to rise, necessitating immediate global attention.
What the papers say
According to Al Jazeera, the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises indicates that acute food insecurity has risen for the sixth consecutive year, affecting over 295 million people. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation as a 'failure of humanity,' emphasizing the urgent need for action. The Guardian corroborates this, noting that conflict and funding cuts have intensified the crisis, particularly in Gaza and Sudan, where famine conditions have been declared. Meanwhile, The New Arab highlights the dire situation in Somalia, where malnutrition rates are soaring due to ongoing conflict and climate challenges. These sources collectively underscore the urgent need for a coordinated global response to address the escalating food crisis.
How we got here
The rise in food insecurity is attributed to ongoing conflicts, economic instability, and climate-related disasters. Countries like Sudan and Gaza have seen significant deterioration in food access due to war and blockades, while global funding cuts have exacerbated the crisis.
Go deeper
- What are the main causes of food insecurity?
- How are countries responding to this crisis?
- What can individuals do to help those affected?
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
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Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in North-East Africa. It is bordered by Egypt to the north, Libya to the northwest, Chad to the west, the Central African Republic to the southwest, South Sudan to the south, Ethiopia to the southe