Rome/Geneva: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that the world is heading into a deeper hunger crisis in 2026, with funding shortages leaving millions without essential support. The agency said global needs are rising sharply while resources continue to shrink.
Millions Face Crisis Hunger
In its 2026 Global Outlook, the WFP said 318 million people are expected to face crisis levels of hunger or worse next year. This is more than double the number recorded in 2019. However, the agency expects to assist only 110 million people in 2026 due to limited resources, at a cost of 13 billion dollars. Current forecasts suggest it may receive only about half of what is required.
WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain said the situation is alarming, pointing to active famines in Gaza and parts of Sudan. She called the crisis unacceptable in the modern era and urged stronger international support to prevent further loss of life.
Global hunger is deepening amidst uncertain funding.
◼️318 million people face crisis levels of hunger next year
◼️That’s more than double from 2019WFP urges the international community to invest in proven solutions to stop the spread of hunger: https://t.co/wbQiGfSSJC pic.twitter.com/gWfUOk4Kb7
— World Food Programme (@WFP) November 18, 2025
Aid Cuts Worsen the Crisis
The agency’s largest donor, the United States, has cut foreign aid under President Donald Trump, while several other countries have also reduced assistance. Last month, the WFP said its funding for 2025 was expected to fall by 40 percent, dropping to 6.4 billion dollars from 10 billion dollars in 2024.
Conflict, extreme weather and fragile economies are expected to push more communities into food insecurity. Although famine prevention efforts helped some regions in 2025, the overall hunger crisis continues to deepen.
Afghanistan Shows the Impact
In Afghanistan, where food programmes were heavily reduced this year, the consequences are already visible. Jean-Martin Bauer, the WFP Director for the country, said nine out of ten people arriving at nutrition centres on foot, many of them women and children, are being turned away due to limited resources. He warned that the lack of support could increase conflict or force people to migrate.
WFP assistance has pulled entire communities back from the brink of famine this year and supported millions more.
In 2026, we plan to continue making every dollar count – with focused resources and innovative solutions.
Learn more: https://t.co/wbQiGfTqza pic.twitter.com/m7HRDQGbgK
— World Food Programme (@WFP) November 18, 2025
Urgent Call for Support
The WFP said it will continue delivering emergency food and nutrition aid, helping communities build resilience and supporting national systems through technical expertise. The agency also plans to use technology to improve efficiency.
The WFP urged governments and donors to invest in proven solutions to fight hunger and move closer to the global goal of zero hunger.
