The Interplay of Hunger and War: Addressing SDG 2 under the Shadow of Conflict

In the global pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) - Zero Hunger, the intersection between hunger and conflict emerges as a formidable obstacle. While hunger remains a pressing issue worldwide, its exacerbation by war amplifies its severity, posing significant challenges to achieving food security and sustainable development. Ending hunger and extreme food insecurity features among the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, adopted in 2015. Worldwide, the number of hungry and malnourished people had been declining for at least two decades but began rising after 2015. Experts believe conflicts and wars, along with climate change further deepens the spiral of hunger and conflict.

Among the 815 million people suffering from chronic malnutrition in 2016, 60 percent lived in areas affected by armed conflict.

In 2018, the United Nations Security Council passed a historical resolution recognizing that hunger drives forced displacement and conversely forced displacement can have a devastating impact on agricultural production. Hunger will never be eliminated without global peace.

Hunger and war share a complex interrelationship. Conflict disrupts food production, distribution channels, and access to resources, leading to food insecurity and malnutrition. In turn, hunger weakens populations, making them more vulnerable to the destabilizing effects of war. This synergy perpetuates a cycle of poverty, violence, and deprivation, hindering efforts towards achieving SDG 2.

Across various conflict zones globally, hunger remains a pervasive issue, with millions facing food insecurity and malnutrition. In war-torn regions like Yemen, South Sudan, and Syria, conflict disrupts agricultural activities, displaces communities, and hampers humanitarian access, leading to widespread hunger and famine. In Yemen alone, the ongoing civil war has left millions on the brink of starvation, exacerbated by a blockade that restricts food and aid deliveries , several regions around the world continue to experience conflict and war, leading to significant humanitarian crises and exacerbating food insecurity and hunger. Here are some of the current war-affected areas where hunger is a pressing issue:

1. Yemen: The ongoing conflict in Yemen has resulted in one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Years of war between Houthi rebels and a Saudi-led coalition have led to widespread displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and economic collapse. As a result, millions of Yemenis are facing severe food shortages, malnutrition, and famine conditions.

2. Syria: The Syrian civil war, now in its eleventh year, has devastated the country's infrastructure, economy, and social fabric. Millions of Syrians are internally displaced or living as refugees in neighboring countries, struggling to access food, clean water, and basic services. The conflict has disrupted agricultural activities, leading to food shortages and

hunger among vulnerable populations.

3. South Sudan: South Sudan has been plagued by conflict and political instability since gaining independence in 2011. Violence between ethnic groups, coupled with economic challenges and environmental factors such as droughts and floods, has led to widespread food insecurity and malnutrition. Millions of South Sudanese are in urgent need of food

assistance.

4. Afghanistan: The Taliban insurgency and political instability in Afghanistan have led to a deteriorating humanitarian situation, exacerbated by droughts, economic hardships, and the withdrawal of international aid. Millions of Afghans are facing food shortages and

hunger, particularly in rural areas where access to food and basic services is limited.

5. Ethiopia (Tigray region): The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region, between government forces and Tigrayan rebels, has resulted in widespread displacement, destruction of infrastructure, and humanitarian suffering. The conflict has disrupted agricultural activities and aid delivery, leaving millions of people in urgent need of food assistance and other humanitarian aid.

6. Myanmar (Rakhine state and other conflict-affected areas): Ethnic tensions and conflicts in Myanmar, particularly in Rakhine state and other minority regions, have led to displacement and humanitarian crises. Rohingya Muslims, in particular, have faced persecution and

violence, leading to mass displacement and food insecurity.

Consequences of Hunger in Conflict Zones:

The consequences of hunger in conflict zones are dire, impacting individuals, communities, and entire nations. Malnutrition weakens immune systems, increasing susceptibility to diseases and mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Moreover, food shortages fuel social unrest, exacerbate tensions, and contribute to the perpetuation of conflict, creating a vicious cycle of instability and deprivation.

Solutions:

Addressing hunger in conflict zones requires a multifaceted approach that combines humanitarian aid, conflict resolution, and long-term development strategies.

Facilitating Humanitarian Access

It is crucial in delivering food aid and medical assistance to affected populations. This necessitates the cooperation of warring parties to ensure the safety and security of aid workers and the unhindered delivery of relief supplies.

Investing in agriculture and livelihoods

This can build resilience and reduce dependency on food aid in conflict-affected communities. By supporting smallholder farmers, providing access to seeds, tools, and training, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, it is possible to enhance food

security and empower communities to withstand the impacts of conflict.

Promoting peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts

It is essential to address the root causes of hunger and instability. By fostering dialogue,

reconciliation, and inclusive governance, it is possible to mitigate conflict and create conducive environments for sustainable development. International mediation and diplomacy play a crucial role in facilitating peace negotiations and building consensus among conflicting parties.

Promoting education and gender equality

This can empower communities to break the cycle of poverty and conflict. By investing in education, especially for girls, and promoting women's participation in decision-making processes, it is possible to address underlying inequalities and promote social cohesion.

In conclusion, the nexus between hunger and war poses significant challenges to achieving SDG 2 - Zero Hunger. Conflict exacerbates food insecurity and malnutrition, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and instability that undermines efforts towards sustainable development. However, by adopting a holistic approach that combines humanitarian aid, conflict resolution, and long-term development strategies, it is possible to mitigate the impact of hunger in conflict zones and move closer towards realizing the goal of zero hunger for all.