Acute food insecurity and malnutrition remain deeply troubling issues worldwide, especially in certain countries, according to the latest Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2026. This report reveals a significant increase in hunger levels, with famines declared in two regions for the first time ever.
In 2025 alone, 266 million people across 47 countries faced high levels of acute food insecurity. That’s almost 23% of the assessed population—up from previous years. Alarmingly, this marks nearly double the number from 2016. The crisis is most severe in ten countries, including Afghanistan, Sudan, and Yemen, which collectively account for two-thirds of those struggling with hunger.
In 2025, famine was documented in Gaza Governorate and parts of Sudan, highlighting an unprecedented spike in extreme hunger. Experts attribute the significant rise in food crises primarily to ongoing conflicts and restrictions on humanitarian aid. Forced displacement, with over 85 million people being moved from their homes, worsens the situation, as displaced individuals often experience higher hunger levels than their host communities.
Nutrition remains a pressing concern too. In 2025, 35.5 million children were acutely malnourished, with nearly 10 million facing severe cases. This ongoing malnutrition is fueled by a mix of poor diets, diseases, and failing services in crisis areas. Countries like Gaza and South Sudan showcase the dire consequences of these compounding issues, with many children at heightened risk of mortality.
Looking forward, conditions are expected to stay grim. Conflicts, changing climates, and economic uncertainties threaten to keep food insecurity at critical levels. The recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East could disrupt global food markets, especially in regions reliant on imports. Not only are the immediate impacts regional, but they also affect vulnerable communities’ ability to buy food due to rising costs.
A growing concern outlined in the report is the decline in funding for humanitarian efforts. Resources allocated for addressing food crises have fallen to levels last seen nearly a decade ago. This downturn limits the ability of governments and organizations to implement effective responses. Moreover, the decline in reliable data representation may obscure the true scale of food insecurity.
The GRFC emphasizes that food and nutrition crises are not fleeting emergencies but ongoing issues that demand sustained action. To combat these problems, investment in resilient food systems, climate adaptability, and improved agricultural methods is essential.
Expert Opinions:
“The situation is alarming,” notes Dr. Amina Ezzeddine, a food security expert. “We are witnessing a structural problem rather than isolated incidents. Strong action is required, and that means not just reacting, but proactively building resilience.”
As the report states, international cooperation is more crucial than ever. Collectively addressing root causes, enhancing local food production, and securing humanitarian access is vital to avert future humanitarian disasters.
In the world today, failure to act could lead to more egregious effects, especially for the most vulnerable, including millions of children who should not suffer from malnutrition in a world where food is available. Immediate responses paired with long-term strategies are necessary to break the cycle of hunger.
For more details, you can access the full findings in the Global Report on Food Crises.
