FAO: Food Insecurity in Conflict Zones
As the tragedy of war rises, food insecurity emerges, becoming a battle that costs lives. With 70 percent of people who struggle with food insecurity living in conflict zones, the urgency to address this global crisis is clear. A lack of access to sufficient, nutritious, and affordable food threatens human health and well-being. During armed conflict, the civilian population cannot simply survive without the bare minimum of food and water. But yet, conflicts and war steer food insecurity depending on how opposing parties choose to wage their battles, and indirectly disrupt food systems. Conditions and circumstances vary significantly, but food insecurity specifically in conflict zones can displace farmers and destroy agricultural assets, disrupt markets, drive up prices, and damage livelihoods, as well as ultimately breed hunger. Those combating food insecurity in conflict zones face limited healthcare resources, susceptibility to diseases, increased prices of food, and displacement. Children and women are disproportionately affected by these issues, as children’s dependency on food influences women’s food insecurity. Children require eating adequate food to grow and develop. Without adequate and healthy food, children lack educational opportunities and are more likely to experience mental illness. In some cultures, women may adapt to gender norms and sacrifice food to ensure their families are fed. However, food insecurity remains a worldwide concern. The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to eliminate food insecurity globally. Delegates will collaborate to discuss the root causes of food insecurity in conflict zones and create solutions for building healthier, stable, and peaceful communities.