WFP faces potential 40% budget cuts amid rising IPC 2 numbers

The United Nations has raised urgent concerns regarding the escalating global food crisis, projecting a significant budget cut of approximately 40% for the World Food Programme (WFP). This alarming forecast was discussed during a press conference on May 18, 2025, where officials highlighted the dire implications for millions facing food insecurity.

Gabriel Zondo from Al Jazeera English sought clarification on the budget cuts, emphasizing the need for accurate reporting on the WFP's financial situation. In response, officials explained that while projections indicate a shortfall, the actual funding received may vary based on donor commitments. They noted that ongoing assessments suggest a total funding requirement of around $6.4 billion for the year, but many donors have indicated they will not match previous contributions.

The press conference also addressed the rising number of people classified under IPC Phase 2, which now stands at 345 million. This figure reflects a broadening impact of food insecurity, with significant increases reported in countries like Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Bangladesh. Officials attributed this growth to a combination of conflict, economic shocks, and climate-related challenges, which are straining household coping mechanisms.

The discussions underscored the necessity for coordinated humanitarian efforts and long-term development strategies to tackle the underlying vulnerabilities contributing to food crises. As funding pressures mount, the call for innovative approaches to address these challenges has never been more critical. The UN emphasized that immediate action is essential to mitigate the worsening situation and support affected communities worldwide.