NewKerala.com

Afghanistan Ranked Fifth in Global Acute Hunger Crisis Report

Afghanistan has been ranked fifth among nations facing acute hunger, according to a Global Food Crises 2026 report. 17.4 million people, or 36% of the population, are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity. Conflict, economic collapse, and climate shocks are identified as key drivers of the crisis. The World Food Programme warns that clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan could worsen the situation.

Key Points: Afghanistan Fifth in World Acute Hunger Crisis: Report

  • Afghanistan ranks 5th globally for acute hunger
  • 17.4 million (36% of population) face food insecurity
  • 4.7 million in emergency or famine-like conditions
  • Conflict, economic collapse, drought, and reduced aid fuel crisis
2 min read

Afghanistan ranked fifth among nations facing acute hunger: Report

Afghanistan ranks fifth globally for acute hunger, with 17.4 million facing food insecurity. Conflict, economic collapse, and climate shocks drive the crisis.

"hunger is not a short-term emergency but a continued and growing global challenge - Global Food Crises 2026 Report"

Kabul, April 26

Afghanistan has been ranked at the fifth spot among the world's worst affected nations for acute hunger, according to a report, local media reported on Sunday.

According to the Global Food Crises 2026 report released by UN agencies, the European Union, and partners, 17.4 million people, about 36 per cent of Afghanistan's population, are facing high levels of acute food insecurity, with 4.7 million experiencing emergency or famine-like conditions, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported. Countries which face higher hunger levels include Congo, Nigeria, Sudan, and Yemen.

Globally, 266 million people in 47 nations faced acute food insecurity in 2025, nearly double the proportion recorded in 2016, according to the report. The report, made with contributions from agencies, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), showcases that hunger is not a short-term emergency but a continued and growing global challenge.

Conflict, economic instability and climate shocks have been identified as the main causes of worsening food insecurity around the world, impacting low-income and crisis-affected nations, Khaama Press reported.

Prolonged economic collapse, unemployment, drought and reduced international aid have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leaving millions of people dependent on food assistance for survival. Aid agencies have stated that hunger levels could further increase in Afghanistan without sustained funding and access, resulting in long-term consequences for children, livelihoods, and national stability.

On March 4, the World Food Programme said Afghanistan continues to face one of the world's most severe hunger crises.

In a report released on March 4, the WFP stated that acute malnutrition is rising in Afghanistan, placing tens of thousands of children at serious risk, Khaama Press reported.

WFP said vulnerable communities were facing difficulties in accessing health services and humanitarian assistance due to clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The agency noted that continued fighting between Pakistan and Afghanistan could push already poor and hungry families in Afghanistan closer to a critical breaking point.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
36% of the population facing acute hunger? That's over 17 million people. And 4.7 million at famine levels. The conflict with Pakistan only makes things worse for the poorest. We need strong diplomatic efforts to ensure aid reaches those who need it, not gets stuck at borders or in bureaucratic delays.
M
Michael C
The report says hunger levels have nearly doubled globally since 2016. That's a staggering increase. While Afghanistan is in the top 5, we can't ignore that this is a worldwide problem linked to conflict, climate change, and economic instability. The international community needs to step up, not cut aid.
V
Vikram M
The WFP warning about malnutrition in children is the most alarming part. Tens of thousands at risk—this is a future generation being lost. International aid is shrinking, but we can't just look away. India has a moral responsibility given our historical ties with Afghanistan. More humanitarian corridors and less politics, please.
S
Sarah B
It's easy to blame conflict and climate, but let's be honest—global funding has been inconsistent. Countries like Afghanistan depend on aid for survival, and when donors cut back due to their own economic woes, the most vulnerable pay the price. Shame on the international community for letting this continue year after year.
R
Rohit P
266 million people globally in acute food insecurity—that number is mind-boggling. Afghanistan is just one example, but it shows how fragile things are. The Pakistan border clashes aren't helping either; it's like the poorest are caught in a never-ending crossfire. We need a global plan, not just

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50