A stark new report released Thursday by the German humanitarian organization, Welthungerhilfe, highlights a worsening global hunger crisis. The report reveals that 733 million people worldwide are currently experiencing chronic hunger, a significant increase of 152 million since 2019. This surge is attributed to a complex interplay of factors, including the accelerating climate crisis, ongoing conflicts and widening global inequality.
The report expresses deep concern over substantial budget cuts implemented by major donor nations, including the United States and Germany, affecting development cooperation and humanitarian aid. Marlehn Thieme, President of Welthungerhilfe, warned that these cuts carry devastating consequences, directly contributing to hunger, displacement and loss of life. She emphasized that eradicating hunger must remain a paramount political priority.
Addressing the root causes of conflict and instability is crucial, the report argues, advocating for political initiatives and diplomatic solutions rather than solely relying on military spending. “Investments in weapons alone do not create security” the organization stated.
The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is identified as particularly grave, prompting Mathias Mogge, General Secretary of Welthungerhilfe, to urgently call for an immediate ceasefire and unobstructed access for humanitarian organizations.
In 2024, Welthungerhilfe received €383.5 million for its project work, with €86.5 million entrusted to the organization by donors. Public donors allocated €291.9 million for program work, with a substantial portion, over 50 percent, originating from German federal funds. The World Food Programme was the largest single donor (€71.4 million), followed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (€67.6 million) and the German Federal Foreign Office (€60.4 million). Project funding was primarily directed towards South Sudan, Syria, Turkey and Sudan.