Key facts
- 13 global 'hunger hotspots' face worsening acute hunger, with six at immediate risk of famine.
- Conflict is the primary driver of food insecurity in most hotspots.
- Humanitarian funding for food assistance has fallen by 59% since 2022.
- Approximately 266 million people face high levels of acute food insecurity.
- El Niño weather patterns are predicted to exacerbate droughts and floods in vulnerable regions.
- FAO and WFP seek $202 million to protect 8.8 million people in 22 countries from El Niño's impacts.
The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) have issued a joint warning that acute hunger is expected to worsen across 13 global 'hunger hotspots' in the coming months, with six regions facing an immediate risk of famine without aid. The agencies are appealing for $202 million to help protect 8.8 million people across 22 high-risk countries from the looming El Niño weather pattern, which is predicted to increase the likelihood of drought, floods, and storms. Conflict is identified as the primary driver of hunger in nearly all these areas, compounded by economic shocks and significant cuts to humanitarian funding. Approximately 266 million people are already facing high levels of acute food insecurity. Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine are among the countries of greatest concern.