Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) 2024

Overview of the Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC)

The Global Report on Food Crises (GRFC) is an annual report released by the Food Security Information Network (FSIN), a collaboration between various United Nations agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental agencies working to address global food insecurity. The report is launched by the Global Network Against Food Crises, a multi-stakeholder initiative dedicated to tackling food crises worldwide.

The GRFC serves as a comprehensive analysis of acute food insecurity globally, regionally, and at the country level. It aims to provide independent and consensus-based evidence and analysis to inform humanitarian and development actions in response to food crises. The report analyzes the drivers of acute food insecurity, such as conflicts, economic shocks, and weather extremes, offering insights into the root causes and exacerbating factors contributing to these crises.

The GRFC's production is a collaborative effort involving 16 partner organizations. The Senior Committee provides strategic guidance and endorses the report, while the Technical Working Groups support the development, drafting, and finalization of the report through data generation, validation, and analysis.

Highlights of the GRFC 2024

The GRFC 2024 report analyzed a population of 1.3 billion across 59 countries and found that nearly 282 million people faced high levels of acute food insecurity in 2023. This marks the fifth consecutive year of an increase in the number of people suffering from acute food insecurity, defined as a situation where populations face food deprivation that threatens lives or livelihoods, regardless of the causes or duration.

The report identified conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic shocks as the three main drivers exacerbating food crises worldwide. Conflicts and insecurity were the primary drivers in 20 countries, directly affecting 135 million people, with the Gaza Strip and Sudan experiencing particularly severe food crises.

Weather extremes were the main driver for 18 countries, with over 72 million people facing high levels of acute food insecurity due to such events. The report highlighted that the

10 countries with the world's largest food crises in 2023 were the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Yemen, the Syrian Arab Republic, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Myanmar.

On a positive note, the situation improved in 17 countries in 2023, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Ukraine, indicating progress in addressing food insecurity in certain regions.

The Drivers of Acute Food Insecurity

The GRFC 2024 report identified three primary drivers of acute food insecurity: conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic shocks.

Conflicts and insecurity were the primary drivers in 20 countries, directly affecting 135 million people. Ongoing conflicts disrupt agricultural activities, damage infrastructure, and displace populations, leading to widespread food insecurity. The report highlighted the severe food crises in the Gaza Strip and Sudan as prime examples of conflict-driven food insecurity.

Extreme weather events, such as droughts, floods, and cyclones, were the main drivers of acute food insecurity in 18 countries, affecting over 72 million people. Climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of these events, leading to crop failures, livestock losses, and disruptions in food production and distribution.

Economic shocks, including economic crises, currency devaluations, and high food prices, also contribute to food insecurity by reducing household purchasing power and limiting access to food. These shocks can be triggered by various factors, such as political instability, global market fluctuations, and natural disasters.

The report emphasizes the need for concerted efforts to address these drivers, including conflict resolution, climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, and economic stabilization measures, to tackle the root causes of food insecurity effectively.

The Way Forward

While the GRFC 2024 report highlights the alarming levels of acute food insecurity globally, it also provides insights into potential solutions and the way forward.

One critical aspect is the need for increased international cooperation and collaboration. Addressing food crises requires a concerted effort from governments, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and local communities. Sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices can help develop effective strategies and interventions.

Investing in early warning systems and preparedness measures is crucial to mitigating the impact of food crises. By anticipating and responding to emerging food insecurity situations promptly, the severity of crises can be reduced, and lives can be saved.

Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of food insecurity, such as conflicts, climate change, and economic instability. Promoting peace and conflict resolution, implementing climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, and fostering economic development and resilience are essential for long-term solutions.

Furthermore, the GRFC 2024 highlights the need for sustainable and inclusive food systems that prioritize smallholder farmers, promote diversified and nutritious diets, and ensure equitable access to food for all populations, particularly the most vulnerable groups.

By addressing these critical aspects and implementing comprehensive strategies, the global community can work towards reducing acute food insecurity and achieving food security for all.