The 2024 Global Report on Food Crisis unveiled a distressing increase in acute food insecurity, affecting over 282 million individuals in 59 countries and territories. Conflict, extreme weather events, and economic shocks were identified as the main catalysts behind this alarming rise compared to the previous year, exacerbating hunger on a global scale. Regions like Gaza and Sudan experienced worsening conditions, contributing to the uptick in numbers.
Countries with the highest levels of acute food insecurity included the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia. Additionally, areas such as Palestine, South Sudan, Yemen, the Syrian Arab Republic, and Haiti also had significant proportions of their populations grappling with severe hunger.
Rein Paulsen, Director of the FAO Office of Emergencies and Resilience, highlighted the persistent prevalence of acute food insecurity globally, with a substantial 21.5 percent of the assessed population facing hunger crises in 2023. The report emphasized the necessity for a holistic approach centered on prevention, anticipation, and preparedness to disrupt the cycle of food crises worldwide.
Of particular concern was the situation in Sudan, where 18 million people faced acute food insecurity due to the combined impact of the ongoing civil war and climate crisis, leading to a significant deterioration over the past year. Urgent action is imperative to address these underlying issues and prevent further escalation of food crises.
Addressing the root causes of acute food insecurity, including conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic shocks, is critical. The interconnected nature of these drivers poses challenges for affected households to cope and recover from shocks. Therefore, adopting sustainable solutions that tackle these drivers comprehensively through a blend of humanitarian aid and long-term development strategies is essential to work towards a more food-secure future for all.
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