EU Joint Research Centre · Health

Global Food Crises Remain High Amidst Conflict and Climate Shocks

Acute food insecurity persists globally at alarmingly high levels as of August 2026, driven primarily by conflict, insecurity, and extreme weather, according to the Global Report on Food Crises 2026 mid-year update. Emerging risks from El Niño, Middle East conflicts, and reduced humanitarian funding are expected to exacerbate conditions.

Famine risk exists in Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan. Localized improvements in Sudan and Gaza, due to better security and aid access, reduced the number of people in the most severe food insecurity phase (IPC/CH Phase 5).

Progress is uneven; 17 countries improved, while 15 deteriorated between 2025-2026. Further setbacks are expected due to ongoing conflicts, El Niño, and funding cuts.

Gaza, South Sudan, Yemen, Sudan, Haiti, and Afghanistan have the highest prevalence of acute food insecurity. Nigeria, DRC, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Yemen have the largest affected populations.

Nutrition has worsened in Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan, with some areas in critical condition. This is linked to food insecurity, disease, poor feeding, and service access issues.

El Niño is expected to persist through February 2027, increasing weather shocks. Middle East conflicts also raise costs and disrupt trade.

Humanitarian funding is projected to fall significantly. Official development assistance is at its lowest since 2014, weakening aid and resilience efforts.

The JRC supports data analysis for the report, providing technical assistance and real-time information. The Global Network against Food Crises aims to address root causes of food crises.

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