about 113 million people in 53 countries experience acute food insecurity in 2018, compared to 124 million in 2017. These were the findings of the recent report presented by the European unio (EU), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the UN World Food Programme (WFP). 

Neven Mimica, commissioner, International Cooperation and Development, said, “Food insecurity remains a global challenge. That is why, between 2014 and 2020, the EU will have provided nearly €9 billion for initiatives on food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture in over 60 countries.”

“Today’s Global Report highlighted the need for a strengthened cooperation between humanitarian, development and peace actors to reverse and prevent food crises. A stronger Global Network can help deliver change on the ground for the people who really need it,” he added.

Christos Stylianides, commissioner for humanitarian aid and crisis management, EU, said, “Food crises continue to be a global challenge, which requires our joint efforts. The EU continues to step up its humanitarian efforts.”

“Over the last three years, the EU allocated the biggest humanitarian food and nutrition assistance budget ever, with nearly two billion Euro overall. Food crises are becoming more acute and complex and we need innovative ways to tackle and prevent them from happening,” he added.

“The Global Report provides a basis to formulate the next steps of the Global Network by improving our coordination mechanisms,” Stylianides said.