A report released Tuesday by the two United Nations agencies, identifies six at greatest risk of famine or catastrophic starvation: Sudan, Palestine, South Sudan, Mali, Haiti and Yemen. In these areas, some communities are expected to experience famine or famine-like conditions. Other countries of great concern include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria and Afghanistan. Additional access points include Burkina Faso, Chad, Kenyaand the situation of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.
“Famine is not inevitable”
Acute food insecurity means families cannot meet their basic food needs and often resort to desperate measures, such as skipping meals or selling essential goods. In phases 4 (emergency) and 5 (disaster/famine), hunger is life-threatening.
“Famine is not inevitable,” said Cindy McCain, PAM Executive Director. “We have the tools and knowledge to prevent it, but we need the resources and political will to act now. »
Children are particularly vulnerable. Malnutrition weakens immunity, making them more vulnerable to disease and death. The report warns that delay in action will cost lives and increase humanitarian costs.
A woman prepares a meal for her family in El Fasher, North Darfur, where people are stuck because of the fighting.
What is driving the crisis?
The report highlights four main factors:
- Conflict and violence: The main cause in 14 of the 16 hotspots.
- Economic shocks: Fragile economies, high debt and soaring food prices.
- Climatic extremes: Floods, droughts and cyclones linked to La Niña conditions.
- Reduced humanitarian aid: Funding shortfalls have forced ration reductions and limited treatment of malnutrition.
“Conflict remains the main cause of hunger,” said Dongyu Qu, FAO General manager. “But climate shocks and economic instability are worsening the crisis. leaving millions without a safety net.
What should happen now?
FAO and WFP call for urgent action to prevent famine:
- Humanitarian aid to save lives and livelihoods.
- Anticipatory action—early interventions before crises escalate.
- Investing in resilience address the root causes, not just the symptoms.
The agencies stress that the international community faces an increasingly narrow window for action. Failure to respond will worsen hunger, destabilize regions and lead to preventable deaths.
How can you help
You can support efforts to fight hunger by:
Every contribution helps provide food, nutrition and livelihood support to those who need it most.
Publicado anteriormente en Almouwatin.
