Funding Crisis Threatens Lifesaving Food Aid in Myanmar

Funding Crisis Threatens Lifesaving Food Aid in Myanmar A severe funding shortfall is set to cut off more than a million people in Myanmar from essential food assistance provided by the World Food Programme (WFP) starting next month, the United Nations' food agency reported on Friday.The impending aid cuts coincide with rising conflict, displacement, and access restrictions that are drastically increasing the demand for food aid in the country. Myanmar has faced turmoil since early 2021 following the military's ousting of an elected civilian government, leading to widespread unrest and rebellion against the ruling junta.With nearly 20 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, and an estimated 15.2 million facing acute food insecurity, the WFP warns of severe impacts, especially during the upcoming lean season. The agency has expressed deep concern over the situation, particularly for vulnerable communities like internally displaced Rohingya Muslims, who heavily depend on its support.

A severe funding shortfall is set to cut off more than a million people in Myanmar from essential food assistance provided by the World Food Programme (WFP) starting next month, the United Nations' food agency reported on Friday. The impending aid cuts coincide with rising conflict, displacement, and access restrictions that are drastically increasing the demand for food aid in the country. Myanmar has faced turmoil since early 2021 following the military's ousting of an elected civilian government, leading to widespread unrest and rebellion against the ruling junta.

With nearly 20 million people in need of humanitarian assistance, and an estimated 15.2 million facing acute food insecurity, the WFP warns of severe impacts, especially during the upcoming lean season. The agency has expressed deep concern over the situation, particularly for vulnerable communities like internally displaced Rohingya Muslims, who heavily depend on its support.

(With inputs from agencies.).