Food is a basic need. Yet, for millions of people around the world, even one proper meal a day is not guaranteed. The global hunger crisis continues to worsen, affecting families, children, and entire communities. New data from the United Nations paints a worrying picture of how conflict, climate change, and economic stress are pushing more people into extreme hunger than ever before.
What does the latest report say about the global hunger crisis?
According to the UN’s 2025 Global Report on Food Crises, nearly 295 million people across 53 countries and territories faced severe hunger in 2024. This is an increase of 13.7 million people compared to 2023 and marks the sixth year in a row that global food insecurity has risen.
Overall, food insecurity increased by 5% from 2023, showing that the problem is not slowing down.
Why is hunger increasing?
The report points to three main reasons:
- Conflict and war, which disrupt food supplies and farming
- Climate-related disasters, such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves
- Economic challenges, including rising food prices and poverty
Places like Gaza, South Sudan, and Haiti are facing some of the most severe food shortages.
Who is most affected by the global hunger crisis?
Children and women are suffering the most. The report highlights that:
- Around 22.6% of the assessed population is experiencing acute hunger
- People living in famine-like conditions have more than doubled since 2023, reaching 1.9 million
- About 38 million children under five are facing acute malnutrition, putting their growth and health at serious risk
What can be done?
Experts say solutions exist, but they require global effort and action:
- Support local agriculture so communities can grow their own food
- Provide humanitarian aid to people in crisis zones
- Raise awareness so more people understand the causes and solutions of hunger
The 2024 Global Report on Food Crises makes one thing clear. Urgent global cooperation is needed to tackle the root causes of hunger and ensure everyone has access to safe, nutritious food.
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