UNICEF: Over Half of Yemen’s Population Lacks Access to Healthcare as Crisis Deepens

UNICEF: Over Half of Yemen’s Population Lacks Access to Healthcare as Crisis Deepens
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Yemen’s healthcare system remains in a state of severe crisis, with international agencies warning that millions of people are unable to obtain essential medical services amid ongoing conflict, economic hardship, and infrastructure collapse.

According to UNICEF, over 50 percent of the population lacks access to basic healthcare, as many medical facilities are either non-functional or operating with limited capacity due to shortages of staff, medicines, and equipment.

Children are among the most affected. The agency estimates that around 500,000 children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition, a life-threatening condition that significantly increases the risk of disease and death. Millions more face broader nutritional deficiencies and health challenges linked to poverty and food insecurity.

UNICEF also highlights that economic barriers, particularly high transportation costs and widespread poverty, are preventing families from reaching health facilities. As a result, treatable illnesses are increasingly becoming life-threatening, especially in remote and underserved areas.

The crisis is further compounded by inadequate water and sanitation services, leaving an estimated 17.8 million people in need of health and hygiene support, according to UN data.

Despite these challenges, UNICEF says it continues to work with humanitarian partners to sustain critical health and nutrition services across the country. The agency has called for urgent international support to strengthen Yemen’s healthcare infrastructure and prevent further deterioration of conditions.