WFP: Funding Shortfalls Could Push 318 Million People into Acute Hunger in 2026

WFP warns funding cuts will deepen a global hunger crisis

The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that reductions in funding will intensify a growing global hunger crisis, with an estimated 318 million people projected to face acute food insecurity in 2026 — more than double the number recorded in 2019.

Of these, roughly 41 million are expected to be in the most severe category — the "emergency" phase or worse, equivalent to an IPC classification of 4 or higher on the internationally recognised hunger monitoring scale.

The WFP anticipates it will be able to assist about 110 million people in 2026, leaving millions without life‑saving food support if funding gaps remain. The agency estimates its operational requirements for 2026 at approximately $13 billion, funding crisis response, resilience building and efforts to address root causes; current forecasts suggest it may receive only about half that amount.

Cindy McCain, WFP Executive Director: "The world is grappling with simultaneous famines, in Gaza and parts of Sudan. This is completely unacceptable in the 21st century. Hunger is becoming more entrenched. We know early, effective solutions save lives, but we desperately need more support."

The humanitarian situation is dire in multiple hotspots. In Gaza City and surrounding areas the IPC declared famine in August after a months‑long blockade sharply restricted supplies of food, fuel, water and medicines. In Sudan, famine conditions were confirmed in el‑Fasher and Kadugli, and around 20 additional locations in Darfur and Kordofan were identified as at risk of sliding into famine amid intense fighting between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army.

Other high‑risk countries and regions named by the WFP include Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, South Sudan, the Sahel, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti and Nigeria. The agency notes that conflict remains the dominant driver of acute food insecurity — accounting for more than two‑thirds of cases — while climate shocks, economic instability and spikes in food and energy prices further exacerbate the crisis.

Last month the WFP warned it expected to receive around 40% less funding next year; recent forecasts now indicate the agency may only secure roughly half of its $13 billion requirement. Major donor reductions, including significant cuts announced by the United States following an "America‑first" policy shift after President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, have heightened concerns about the agency's ability to respond.

The WFP and humanitarian partners have repeatedly emphasised that early, well‑funded interventions save lives and reduce long‑term costs. With simultaneous famines and expanding hotspots, the organisation is urging governments and donors to urgently increase funding to prevent further loss of life and deterioration of food security worldwide.