A recent joint report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) reveals that acute food insecurity is worsening in 16 hunger hotspots worldwide. Millions now face the threat of famine or near-famine conditions, with time running out to avert widespread starvation.
In 14 of the 16 hotspots, conflict and violence are the primary causes of hunger. Economic shocks, extreme weather, and critical funding shortfalls are also intensifying the crisis. These factors are pushing vulnerable populations to the brink, especially in regions already struggling with instability.
Countries at Highest Risk
Six countries and territories are classified as being at the highest risk of catastrophic hunger: Haiti, Mali, Palestine, South Sudan, Sudan, and Yemen. Populations in these areas face imminent danger of famine, with some communities already experiencing starvation.
Other High-Alert Regions
Six additional countries—Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Myanmar, Nigeria, Somalia, and the Syrian Arab Republic—are classified as “very high concern”. Burkina Faso, Chad, Kenya, and the Rohingya refugee situation in Bangladesh are also facing severe food insecurity.
Funding Shortfalls Cripple Aid Efforts
As hunger hotspots approach catastrophic conditions, humanitarian funding remains dangerously low. By the end of October 2025, only $10.5 billion of the $29 billion needed had been received. This shortfall has forced agencies to cut food rations and suspend critical nutrition and school feeding programs.
Impact on Vulnerable Groups
Deep funding gaps have led to reduced assistance for refugees and displaced people. Children, refugees, and displaced families are now at extreme risk, with many forced to skip meals or exhaust their limited resources. Vital livelihood support, such as seeds and livestock services, is also at risk, undermining long-term resilience.
Famine Is Preventable—But Not Without Action
FAO and WFP stress that famine is almost always predictable and preventable. Early warning systems, like the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), can help trigger timely interventions. However, urgent political will, adequate funding, and unimpeded humanitarian access are essential to prevent catastrophe.
Q&A: Understanding the Hunger Hotspots Report
Q: What is the Hunger Hotspots report?
A: It is a bi-annual early warning system by FAO and WFP that identifies regions at risk of acute food insecurity and famine.
Q: Why is funding so critical?
A: Without sufficient funding, emergency responses are crippled, and vital aid programs are suspended, leaving millions without food or support.
Q: How can famine be prevented?
A: By acting early, investing in resilience, and ensuring humanitarian access, especially in conflict zones.
FAQ: Key Questions About the Crisis
Q: Which countries are most at risk?
A: Haiti, Mali, Palestine, South Sudan, Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, DRC, Myanmar, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria, Burkina Faso, Chad, Kenya, and Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.
Q: What are the main causes of hunger in these regions?
A: Conflict, economic shocks, extreme weather, and funding shortfalls.
Q: What can be done to help?
A: Urgent funding, political will, and unimpeded humanitarian access are needed to prevent famine and save lives.
