Food insecurity is at an all-time high, undoing decades of progress in the fight against hunger. Over 280 million people globally face acute food insecurity, putting their lives at immediate risk. Meanwhile, 713 million people are dealing with chronic food insecurity. They face a persistent lack of nutritious food. This marks an alarming rise of 150 million since 2019.
Without urgent action, chronic hunger could affect 582 million people by 2030. The growing food crisis demands immediate attention and strategic interventions. A recent report from UNCTAD highlights the role trade can play in addressing food insecurity. It also emphasizes stabilizing food systems and building resilience against future shocks.
CAUSES OF FOOD INSECURITY AND FAMINE
The causes of food insecurity are multifaceted and deeply interconnected. Understanding these drivers is essential to tackling the problem effectively, says the report tilted Trade Against hunger.
Armed Conflict: A Major Driver of Acute Food Insecurity
Armed conflict remains the leading cause of acute food insecurity. In 2022, over 134.5 million people across 20 countries faced food insecurity due to conflict, nearly half of all global cases. Famine is often concentrated in conflict zones, where agricultural systems collapse and food supply chains are disrupted. In 2023, nearly all people living in famine conditions were in countries affected by armed conflict.
Socioeconomic Shocks: The Impact of Poverty and Inequality
Poverty and inequality are also significant contributors to food insecurity. In 2022, 84 million people in 27 countries faced acute food insecurity. This was due to socioeconomic shocks. The number was up from 30 million in 2021. Economic instability, high levels of poverty, and income inequality make it harder for people to access enough food.
Climate Change: Extreme Weather Events Disrupting Food Supply
Climate change is intensifying food insecurity. Extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and storms cause crop failures and food shortages. In 2022, 77 million people in 18 countries faced food insecurity due to climate-related disasters. This was an increase from 57 million in 12 countries the previous year.
ROLE OF TRADE IN TACKLING FOOD INSECURITY
Trade plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity. It increases food supplies, lowers prices, and ensures access to diverse, nutritious foods. Trade also acts as a safeguard against local shocks like droughts and conflicts, while supporting economic resilience.
The Black Sea Initiative: A Case Study of Trade in Action
A key example of trade’s positive impact on food security is the Black Sea Initiative. During the war in Ukraine, the United Nations, together with Türkiye, brokered a deal to allow the export of food and fertilizers from Ukraine and Russia. This agreement helped stabilize global food markets and reduce the FAO Food Price Index by 23%.
The Risks of Trade Dependence
Trade offers many benefits. However, it can also contribute to rising food prices. It increases vulnerabilities in countries that are highly dependent on imports. For instance, non-tariff measures, like sanitary standards, can raise food prices by up to 20%. Over-reliance on imports leaves countries vulnerable to global price spikes and disruptions in supply chains. Yemen, for example, imports 93% of its cereal needs, and Haiti relies on imports for 86%.
KEY TRADE POLICY ACTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
To address food insecurity and stabilize food systems, the report outlines several key policy actions. These actions can help reduce trade-related costs. They can also improve food access.
Reducing Trade Barriers
One of the most effective ways to combat food insecurity is to reduce trade barriers. Cutting tariffs can make food more affordable for vulnerable countries. Addressing the hidden costs of non-tariff measures, such as sanitary standards, also plays a crucial role. This will help ensure that food reaches those who need it most during crises.
Facilitating Access to Food During Crises
During food crises, it is vital to remove tariffs on food aid and essential inputs. Export restrictions should also be avoided to ensure that food can flow freely to countries in need. This will help prevent shortages and reduce the risk of famine in affected regions.
Strengthening Regional Food Trade
Strengthening regional food trade is another crucial step. By shortening supply chains and fostering cooperation between neighboring countries, regional trade can help reduce vulnerabilities to global disruptions. This approach can also make it easier for countries to respond to local food shortages.
Boosting Export Capacity in Vulnerable Countries
Providing technical assistance to vulnerable countries can help increase their export capacity. This will allow local producers to meet international standards and access global markets, enhancing economic resilience and food security.
Investing in Trade Infrastructure
Investing in trade infrastructure—like ports, transport networks, and storage facilities—can lower trade costs, particularly for low-income countries. This investment is critical for improving food access and ensuring that food supplies are not disrupted by logistical challenges.
Supporting Sustainable Farming Practices
Supporting climate-smart and sustainable farming practices in developing countries will help reduce vulnerabilities to climate change and global market shocks. By promoting sustainable agriculture, countries can build more resilient food systems that can better withstand the challenges of a changing climate.