How can poverty and war contribute to famine and hunger?

Poverty and war are primary drivers of food insecurity, creating complex barriers to the availability and accessibility of nutritious food.

The Impact of War

Warfare is a leading human cause of famine. Conflict contributes to hunger by:1
* Destroying Infrastructure: Fighting directly destroys crops, livestock, and essential food supplies.21
* Disrupting Distribution: Conflict interferes with supply chains, preventing food from reaching those in need. For example, the Russia-Ukraine War reduced grain shipments to nations reliant on those imports.21
* Economic Instability: War often drives up the costs of fuel and fertilizer, which increases global food prices and reduces the purchasing power of vulnerable populations.2

The Role of Poverty

Poverty limits an individual's or a nation's ability to obtain adequate nutrition. It contributes to hunger through:2
* Financial Constraints: Low income restricts the ability to purchase healthy food, often forcing families to rely on cheaper, lower-quality, or calorie-dense foods that lack necessary nutrients.23
* Systemic Barriers: Poverty is linked to broader socioeconomic challenges, such as lack of access to clean water, healthcare, and education, all of which are essential for proper food utilization and health.24
* Resource Access: Poor individuals and countries often lack the resources—such as arable land, water, and technology—required to grow their own food.2