The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning about a deepening global hunger crisis, projecting that more than 318 million people will face acute food insecurity in 2026. The UN agency cited funding shortfalls as a major barrier to addressing escalating food needs worldwide.

“Food insecurity is expected to remain at alarming levels,” the WFP said in its 2026 Global Outlook report, released on Tuesday.

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Alarming Statistics and Projections

According to the WFP, the 318 million people facing severe food insecurity next year represents more than double the number in 2019. Of these, approximately 41 million are expected to be in the emergency phase or worse, equivalent to an IPC 4 or higher classification, signaling severe famine conditions.

Despite the massive need, the WFP anticipates being able to feed only about 110 million people in 2026 due to funding constraints. The organization estimates its operational requirement at $13 billion, covering crisis response, resilience-building, and addressing the root causes of hunger. Current forecasts suggest that only half of this amount may be received.

“The world is grappling with simultaneous famines, in Gaza and parts of Sudan. This is completely unacceptable in the 21st century,” said WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain. “Hunger is becoming more entrenched. We know early, effective solutions save lives, but we desperately need more support.”

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Global Hotspots of Hunger

Several regions are currently experiencing severe food crises:

• Gaza: Famine conditions were declared in August 2025, following months of Israeli blockade restricting food, fuel, water, and medicines.
• Sudan: Areas such as El-Fasher and Kadugli, as well as 20 other regions in Darfur and Kordofan, are at risk of sliding into famine due to ongoing conflict between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army.
• Other hotspots: Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, South Sudan, the Sahel region of East Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, and Nigeria.

Conflict continues to be the dominant driver of hunger, accounting for more than two-thirds of all acute food insecurity. Climate shocks, economic instability, and rising food and energy prices are further aggravating the situation.

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Funding Shortfalls and International Response

The WFP has warned that funding is expected to drop by 40 percent in 2026, undermining its ability to respond effectively. The United States, traditionally the largest donor, announced significant cuts to WFP and other UN programs following President Donald Trump’s “America-first” policies.

Without sufficient support, millions of people in crisis-hit regions will face worsening malnutrition, starvation, and increased mortality rates.

“Early intervention saves lives, but without adequate funding, these efforts are severely limited,” the WFP said.

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Urgency of Global Action

The 2026 projections highlight the urgent need for international cooperation and funding to prevent worsening famine conditions. As conflicts, climate shocks, and economic instability converge, the WFP stresses that targeted humanitarian aid and long-term resilience strategies are critical to saving lives and stabilizing vulnerable communities.

“Hunger is no longer a distant problem—it is a reality for hundreds of millions, and immediate action is required to prevent catastrophic loss of life,” the WFP concluded.