30% of World's Population Lacks Food Security

About 2.4 billion people around the world, or nearly 30% of the global population, experienced varying degrees of food insecurity during the past year of 2022, lacking access to nutritious, safe, and adequate food, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

In 2023, the situation has not improved, especially with ongoing instability and conflicts worldwide. 

This includes conflicts in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine, climate change, rising local food prices, and the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local food price inflation remains high worldwide, with 69.6% of high-income countries experiencing elevated food price inflation.

The most affected countries are in Africa, North America, Latin America, South Asia, Europe, and Central Asia.

Food price inflation has surpassed overall inflation (measured by the annual change in the Consumer Price Index) in 79.4% of the 165 countries that have data on both food and overall consumer price indices.

The global challenge of achieving food security remains a pressing concern as millions of people continue to face the daily struggle of obtaining enough safe and nutritious food.

The effects of this phenomenon became particularly noticeable in September, with temperature fluctuations in the Pacific Ocean, extreme heat in parts of South Asia and Central America, and heavy rainfall in the Andes Mountains. 

This phenomenon typically disrupts crop cycles and adds more pressure on global food production and prices.

In India, heavy rains forced a ban on white rice exports, and in Ukraine, Russia's actions disrupted grain shipments. 

These disruptions, combined with existing challenges, have led to a complex global food landscape.

Food security remains a concern as climate change continues to affect crop yields and export restrictions disrupt global food trade. Collaborative efforts and sustainable solutions are needed to ensure a stable and affordable food supply for all.