In late 2024, acute food insecurity is projected to worsen across 22 countries, as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This alarming trend marks the intersections of conflict, economic instability, and climate variability that exacerbate hunger crises globally. The report identifies critical hotspots where millions face severe food shortages, urging immediate international action to address the underlying causes.
About Food Insecurity
Food insecurity refers to the lack of consistent access to sufficient food for an active, healthy life. It can stem from various factors, including poverty, conflict, and environmental challenges. The FAO defines food security as existing when “all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food.” Recently, approximately 169.2 million people are classified as facing acute food insecurity, with notable concentrations in regions such as Africa and the Middle East.
Key Drivers of Food Insecurity
1. Conflict and Violence – Ongoing conflicts in countries like Sudan, Yemen, and South Sudan disrupt food production and distribution, leading to humanitarian crises. The violence displaces communities, making it difficult for them to access food and other essential services. 2. Economic Instability – Economic downturns, exacerbated by global issues like inflation and supply chain disruptions, impact food availability and affordability. Countries such as Haiti and Zimbabwe are grappling with economic challenges that contribute to food shortages. 3. Climate Change – Extreme weather events, influenced by climate change, have a profound effect on agriculture. The La Niña phenomenon is expected to alter rainfall patterns, causing both floods and droughts, which threaten food production in vulnerable regions.
Regions of Concern
The report identifies several countries as “hunger hotspots.” In Africa, nations like Nigeria, Sudan, and Ethiopia are experiencing severe food shortages due to a combination of conflict and climate variability. In the Middle East, the situation in Palestine (Gaza Strip) remains dire, while Myanmar faces increasing food insecurity due to ongoing conflicts.
Humanitarian Response and Global Action
The FAO and WFP are calling for urgent global action to address these crises. Their recommendations include: – Conflict Resolution – Diplomatic efforts must be prioritised to resolve ongoing conflicts that hinder humanitarian access and disrupt food systems. – Economic Assistance – Providing financial support to affected nations can help stabilise economies and improve food access. – Climate Adaptation Strategies – Implementing measures to adapt agricultural practices to changing climate conditions is essential for safeguarding food security.
Long-term Implications
The implications of worsening food insecurity are profound, affecting health, economic stability, and social cohesion. Malnutrition can lead to long-term health issues and hinder economic productivity. Furthermore, food insecurity can exacerbate social tensions and lead to increased migration pressures as people flee from affected regions.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of conflict on food security in vulnerable regions.
- Analyse the role of climate change in exacerbating food insecurity.
- What measures can be taken to address acute food insecurity on a global scale?
- Evaluate the effectiveness of international organisations in mitigating hunger crises.
- Examine the relationship between economic instability and food security.
