Global hunger crisis moving into a dangerous phase due to COVID-19: WFP Chief

The global hunger crisis caused by conflict, and now compounded by the COVID-19 outbreak, is moving into a new and dangerous phase – especially in countries already scarred by violence, said UN World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director David Beasley.

Beasley said it is critically important to contain the spread of the virus, with the need to keep borders open and supply chains going and trade flows moving.

“WFP is doing what we do best – adapting and innovating to meet the unique demands of the pandemic. Launching new food and cash programmes to support the hungry in urban areas. Supporting over 50 governments to scale up their safety nets and social protection programmes for the most vulnerable. Getting nutritious food to millions of school children shut out of the classroom during lockdown,” WFP Chief said.