End War-induced Famine

Bini Dahal

Wars cause serious harm to the lives of innocent people, including young children. War-torn countries have no access to basic amenities such as food and water, resulting in widespread hunger, famine and even death. Conflicts disrupt the food supply chains and economic activities of the people, pushing them to survive with little or no amenities. Over the years, conflict-induced food insecurity has affected millions of people worldwide. The African region stands as a key example, suffering not only from violent war-induced food insecurity but also from the impacts of climate change.

Globally, the 2023 Global Report on Food Crises suggests that over 117 million people have endured acute food insecurity due to conflict. The Israel-Palestine war which began in October last year provides a clear picture of rising hunger and famine instances. According to the United Nations (UN), one-quarter of the population in Gaza, around 576,000 people, are at risk of being pushed into famine anytime soon. Similarly, it is reported that one out of six children under the age of two suffers from malnutrition and wasting in the northern Gaza. These figures depict how young children become the victims of war, despite having no connection to it. 

International organisations have the biggest role to play in ensuring food security. This is mandated by the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), which states that an impartial international organisation should support war-prone areas with required food and other assistance. However, this has not been possible, especially in the northern belt of the Gaza Strip. The humanitarian groups have still been unable to reach and distribute necessary aids to those in dire need. Also, organisations like the United Nations Relief and Work Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) that mainly provided humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people have been unable to function effectively. Major donors have held back funding stating about its staff’s participation in the first attack. 

Humanitarian crises persist around the world, especially in those regions with protracted conflicts and where relief materials do not reach on time. This significantly impacts the ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and other plans for improving human conditions globally. It was reported that a small kid had died after consuming poisonous bread made from animal feed. This indicates the extent to which families go to ensure their families do not go hungry. Apparently, the situation has been so terrible that people have even resorted to digging underground for drinking water. If a ceasefire takes place, it will be easier for the international humanitarian organisations to contact the people, providing them with immediate relief. 

While wars and conflicts have now become common incidents around the world, international organisations and governments have the additional responsibility to protect the lives of the innocent people and ensure that they are not deprived of basic food and water. The international community must intensify its efforts to ensure that a difficult famine situation is not created. Before it is too late, necessary measures should be taken to that end. By strengthening diplomatic initiatives and conducting fruitful negotiations and agreements, international organisations and major powers should aid in safeguarding the lives of the people affected. Hopefully, peace will prevail in the region soon and people will slowly emerge from this dark web of war and its difficulties.