What is driving the alarming rise in Syrian hunger?

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The Dire State of Food Insecurity in Syria

A record 12.4 million people in Syria are currently struggling to access sufficient food, a situation described as alarming by the UN food agency. This figure represents 60 per cent of the Syrian population experiencing food insecurity, a marked increase from the 9.3 million recorded in May of the previous year. The World Food Programme (WFP) highlights that a basic meal is now out of reach for the majority of families, underscoring the severity of the escalating hunger crisis.
Decades of Conflict and Economic Collapse

Syria's protracted conflict, which began in 2011, has devastated the nation's economy, leading to soaring inflation. This ongoing war has resulted in over 387,000 deaths and displaced millions from their homes. The economic repercussions are starkly evident in the food prices nationwide, which in early 2021 were a staggering 33 times higher than the average recorded in the five years prior to the war.
Regional Financial Crisis and Global Pandemic Impacts

Compounding Syria's internal economic distress is a severe financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon. This situation has significantly reduced the inflow of US dollars into Syria, further straining its economy. Additionally, global lockdowns implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic have exacerbated existing economic woes, intensifying the pressure on Syrian families.
Immense Pressure on Families and Reliance on Aid

The cumulative effect of years of conflict and current economic challenges is placing immense pressure on Syrian households. Many families have exhausted their resources and are now entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance for survival. This dependence underscores the critical need for sustained aid to alleviate the widespread hunger and poverty gripping the nation.

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What is driving the alarming rise in Syrian hunger?

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