UN Women: 11.7 Million More Women and Girls Could Face Food Insecurity

UN Women: 11.7 Million More Women and Girls Could Face Food Insecurity
————————————-
UN Women has warned that an additional 11.7 million women and girls across 28 countries could face food insecurity by the end of 2026, amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, rising food prices and worsening livelihood conditions.

The agency said a “medium scenario” could add around 22 million people to those facing food insecurity, with women and girls accounting for approximately 53 percent. This would come on top of an estimated 208 million women and girls already experiencing food insecurity or malnutrition in the countries covered by the analysis.

UN Women said risks are particularly concentrated in conflict-affected and crisis-hit areas, including South Sudan, Sudan, Haiti, Yemen and Palestine. In Lebanon, the projected increase would affect nearly 4 percent of the country’s female population.

The agency warned that women often bear a disproportionate burden during food crises, reducing their own food intake or skipping meals to feed other family members.

UN Women called for coordinated food, cash, nutrition, protection and livelihood assistance, alongside greater access for women to land, credit and financial services. It also urged conflict de-escalation, respect for international law and diplomatic efforts to promote lasting peace and security.