In these areas, some communities are expected to reach famine or near-famine conditions. Other countries of major concern include Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria and Afghanistan.
Additional access points include Burkina Faso, Chad, Kenyaand the situation of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.
“Famine is not inevitable”
Acute food insecurity means that families are unable to meet their basic food needs and often resort to desperate measures, such as skipping meals or selling essential possessions.
In Phase 4 (Emergency) and Phase 5 (Catastrophe/Famine), hunger becomes life-threatening.
“Famine is not inevitable,” said Cindy McCain, executive director of the WFP. “We have the tools and knowledge to prevent it, but we need the resources and political will to act now.”
Children are especially vulnerable. Malnutrition weakens immunity, making them more susceptible to illness and death. The report warns that delayed action will cost lives and increase humanitarian costs.
A woman prepares a meal for her family in El Fasher, North Darfur, where people are trapped due to fighting.
What is driving the crisis?
The report highlights four main factors:
- Conflict and violence: The main cause in 14 of the 16 critical points.
- Economic shocks: Fragile economies, high debt and rising food prices.
- Climate extremes: Floods, droughts and cyclones linked to La Niña conditions.
- Reduced humanitarian aid: Lack of funding has forced rations to be cut and treatment for malnutrition limited.
“Conflict remains the main cause of hunger,” said Dongyu Qu, FAO Director-General. “But climate crises and economic instability are worsening the crisis, leaving millions without a safety net.”
What has to happen now?
FAO and WFP call for urgent measures to prevent famine:
- Humanitarian assistance to save lives and livelihoods.
- Anticipatory action—early interventions before crises worsen.
- Investment in resilience Address the root causes, not just the symptoms.
The agencies emphasize that the international community faces an increasingly narrow window to act. Failure to respond will worsen hunger, destabilize regions and lead to preventable deaths.
How can you help?
You can support efforts to combat hunger:
Every contribution helps provide food, nutrition and livelihood support to those most in need.