The United Nations press conference on the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises highlighted a critical situation regarding international funding for humanitarian aid, particularly affecting children and mothers. Joan, a key speaker, emphasized the alarming impact of funding cuts, which threaten the lives of approximately 15 million children and their mothers who rely on nutrition support. These cuts disrupt essential services, including infant feeding support and life-saving interventions.

The discussion revealed that funding declines have been ongoing for several years, leading to unprecedented pressure on humanitarian actions and food security efforts. Upcoming reports from the Global Network against Food Crisis indicate potential funding cuts ranging from 11% to as much as 46% for the food security sector in the coming year. This significant reduction underscores the challenges faced by agencies working to combat food insecurity.

Speakers also noted that the constrained funding environment affects not only operational capabilities but also critical areas such as data analysis, which is essential for understanding and addressing worsening food insecurity. In response to these challenges, agencies are exploring innovative programming approaches to maximize the impact of limited resources and improve access to food for vulnerable populations.

The urgency of the situation calls for immediate action and collaboration among donors and humanitarian organizations to ensure that essential support reaches those in need, particularly the most vulnerable children and their families.