UN-Backed IPC Declares Famine in Gaza
Why in the news
The UN-backed IPC framework declared famine in Gaza, with close to 500,000 people affected. It is described as the first famine ever declared in West Asia.
Key facts
- Framework: Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC); Phase 5 is the highest severity level.
- Review: FAO, WFP, UNICEF and OCHA were involved in technical validation.
- Reason cited: systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid, along with conflict, displacement and restricted food supplies.
- Aim: to draw global attention, unlock funding and increase pressure under international humanitarian law.
| IPC famine threshold | Level |
|---|---|
| Households with extreme food shortage | At least 20% |
| Acute malnutrition in children | Above 30% |
| Deaths | More than 2 per 10,000 people daily |
About earlier famines
Earlier famine declarations include Somalia (2011, 2022), South Sudan (2017), Yemen (2018 onwards), Ethiopia’s Tigray (2021) and Sudan (2024). Gaza is the first in West Asia.
Exam angle
- Learn all three IPC Phase 5 criteria.
- Know the agencies: FAO, WFP, UNICEF, OCHA.
- Gaza is the first famine in West Asia.