Global Hunger Reaches Record Levels: UN Report Issues Stark Warning

Nearly 295 million people faced acute hunger in 2023, with Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen among the worst-hit regions, says United Nations

A new report supported by the United Nations has raised the alarm over a dramatic surge in global hunger, revealing that the crisis has reached its worst levels in modern history.

According to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises, an estimated 295.3 million people across 53 countries experienced acute food insecurity in 2023 — a significant increase from the 281.6 million recorded the previous year. This marks the sixth consecutive year of rising hunger levels worldwide.

The analysis, conducted across 65 countries, shows that nearly one-fourth of the population in the surveyed regions is now suffering from severe hunger.

Key Findings from the UN Report:

• Conflict and violence remain the leading cause of food crises in 20 countries, affecting over 140 million people.
• Extreme weather events drove hunger in 18 countries.
• Economic crises were a major factor in 15 countries, impacting 155 million people.
• The number of people at risk of famine has doubled to 1.9 million, compared to the previous year.

Gaza, Sudan, and Yemen Among Hardest Hit

The report singles out Gaza as facing the gravest threat, where Israeli blockades have pushed the region to the brink of famine for over two months. Similar worsening conditions are reported in Myanmar and Sudan, while Afghanistan and Kenya showed slight improvements.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the global hunger crisis as “catastrophic,” emphasizing that ongoing conflicts, climate shocks, and economic instability are driving millions to the edge.

“The tragedy deepens when we realize that one-third of all food produced globally is wasted, while millions starve,” Guterres said.

Humanitarian Aid at Risk Due to Funding Cuts

The report also warns of a bleak outlook for 2025, as declining donations from major donors threaten the future of humanitarian programs. Countries like Afghanistan, Congo, Ethiopia, Haiti, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen are especially vulnerable, with millions dependent on international aid for survival.

Guterres concluded:

“This is not just a systemic failure — it’s a failure of humanity. Hunger in the 21st century is indefensible. We cannot stand with empty hands and closed eyes in front of empty stomachs.”