Report reveals 295 million people in 53 countries face acute hunger crisis in 2024
May 18, 2025 | United Nations, Federal
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In a stark presentation at the United Nations on May 18, 2025, officials unveiled the alarming findings of the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises, revealing that approximately 295 million people across 53 countries faced high levels of acute hunger in 2024. This figure marks a distressing increase of nearly 14 million individuals compared to the previous year, highlighting a troubling trend that has persisted for six consecutive years.
The report paints a grim picture, with over one in five assessed individuals requiring food assistance. Notably, Palestine stands out with its entire population in urgent need, while countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Haiti report that nearly half of their residents are grappling with acute hunger. The situation in Sudan has escalated to famine conditions, with similar risks looming in Gaza, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali.
The report identifies three primary drivers of this crisis: conflict, climate change, and economic shocks. Conflict remains the leading cause in 20 countries, while extreme weather events and economic instability exacerbate the situation in many others. The interplay of these factors often creates a vicious cycle, compounding the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
Displacement is another severe consequence of food insecurity, with nearly 96 million people forcibly displaced globally. A staggering 72 million of these individuals are internally displaced, a number that has doubled since 2018, primarily due to ongoing conflicts. The report emphasizes that most displaced individuals reside in countries experiencing food crises, underscoring the interconnectedness of these issues.
Looking ahead to 2025, the report warns of escalating conflicts in regions like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Palestine, South Sudan, and Sudan, alongside worsening economic vulnerabilities and ongoing climate challenges. The anticipated drop in humanitarian funding—projected to decrease by up to 45%—poses a significant threat to food assistance efforts, potentially leaving millions without the support they desperately need.
As the meeting concluded, officials stressed the urgency of addressing these crises, reminding attendees that behind the staggering statistics are real people—children, families, and communities fighting for survival. The report serves as a clarion call for immediate action to combat the growing food insecurity that threatens lives and livelihoods worldwide.
The report paints a grim picture, with over one in five assessed individuals requiring food assistance. Notably, Palestine stands out with its entire population in urgent need, while countries like Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Haiti report that nearly half of their residents are grappling with acute hunger. The situation in Sudan has escalated to famine conditions, with similar risks looming in Gaza, South Sudan, Haiti, and Mali.
The report identifies three primary drivers of this crisis: conflict, climate change, and economic shocks. Conflict remains the leading cause in 20 countries, while extreme weather events and economic instability exacerbate the situation in many others. The interplay of these factors often creates a vicious cycle, compounding the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
Displacement is another severe consequence of food insecurity, with nearly 96 million people forcibly displaced globally. A staggering 72 million of these individuals are internally displaced, a number that has doubled since 2018, primarily due to ongoing conflicts. The report emphasizes that most displaced individuals reside in countries experiencing food crises, underscoring the interconnectedness of these issues.
Looking ahead to 2025, the report warns of escalating conflicts in regions like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Palestine, South Sudan, and Sudan, alongside worsening economic vulnerabilities and ongoing climate challenges. The anticipated drop in humanitarian funding—projected to decrease by up to 45%—poses a significant threat to food assistance efforts, potentially leaving millions without the support they desperately need.
As the meeting concluded, officials stressed the urgency of addressing these crises, reminding attendees that behind the staggering statistics are real people—children, families, and communities fighting for survival. The report serves as a clarion call for immediate action to combat the growing food insecurity that threatens lives and livelihoods worldwide.
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