The World Food Program (WFP) issued a warning that funding cuts are putting the lives of millions at risk of hunger. Due to significant reductions in funding, the WFP announced a severe decrease in rations, which could have dire consequences for vulnerable populations.
According to a statement released by the United Nations-affiliated agency, these funding cuts could result in an additional 24 million people facing acute hunger within the next 12 months. This represents a 50% increase from the current level of food insecurity.
WFP spokesperson Abeer Atifa highlighted the impact of ongoing global crises on the organization's ability to provide assistance. Atifa mentioned that humanitarian aid for approximately two million individuals in Syria and 200,000 in Palestine had to be reduced. Furthermore, around 120,000 refugees in Jordanian camps were informed of a one-third cut in their designated aid.
Atifa explained that the WFP heavily relies on funding from donor countries, with the United States, Canada, and the European Union being major contributors. However, the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with a global economic downturn, rising food prices, and inflation, has significantly affected these contributions.
The program currently faces a deficit of over 4 billion US dollars for its global operations, exacerbating the challenges in meeting the growing needs of vulnerable populations.
Background: The WFP, established in 1961, has been dedicated to eradicating hunger and malnutrition worldwide. However, recent economic challenges, particularly those brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, have strained the organization's resources, making it increasingly difficult to provide vital food assistance to those in need.
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