Key facts
- Thirteen global 'hunger hotspots' face intensified famine risk.
- The risk period is between June and November 2026.
- Six regions are at immediate risk of famine.
- Conflict is a primary driver of intensified hunger.
- Funding shortages for humanitarian aid contribute to the risk.
- Climate shocks are also a significant factor.
- The warning comes from United Nations food agencies.
United Nations food agencies have issued a stark warning regarding 13 global 'hunger hotspots' that are projected to experience intensified acute hunger between June and November 2026. Six of these regions are identified as being at immediate risk of famine. The primary drivers behind this escalating crisis are multifaceted, including persistent conflict, significant shortages in humanitarian funding, and the compounding effects of climate shocks. These factors are creating a perfect storm that threatens to push millions into severe food insecurity and starvation. The UN agencies are calling for urgent international action to address the root causes and provide necessary aid to avert a catastrophic humanitarian outcome in these vulnerable areas. The warning underscores the precarious state of global food security and the critical need for sustained and increased support for populations affected by these converging crises.