Hunger crisis deepens in global hotspots as famine risk rises: UN
The 'Hunger Hotspots' report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) blames conflict, economic shocks and climate-related hazards for conditions in the worst-hit areas.
The report predicts food crises in the next five months. It called for investment and help to ensure aid delivery, which it said was being undermined by insecurity and funding gaps.
'This report is a red alert. We know where hunger is rising and we know who is at risk,' said WFP executive director Cindy McCain. 'Without funding and access, we cannot save lives.'
For famine to be declared, at least 20% of the population in an area must be suffering extreme food shortages, with 30% of children acutely malnourished and two people out of every 10,000 dying daily from starvation or malnutrition and disease.
In Sudan, where famine was confirmed in 2024, the crisis is expected to persist due to conflict and displacement, with almost 25-million people at risk.
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