A staggering 733 million people worldwide are experiencing chronic hunger, according to the 2024 annual report released Thursday by Welthungerhilfe. This figure represents a significant increase of 152 million since 2019, driven by the escalating climate crisis, ongoing conflicts and expanding global inequalities.
The report highlights a concerning trend of drastic budget cuts in development cooperation and humanitarian aid from major donor countries, including the United States and Germany. Marlehn Thieme, President of Welthungerhilfe, stated that these reductions are costing lives, transforming what appears as austerity measures into hunger, displacement and mortality for millions. She emphasized that eradicating hunger must remain a paramount political priority.
Addressing conflict resolution, the report argues that political initiatives and diplomatic solutions are vital, asserting that investments in weaponry alone do not guarantee security.
The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is of particular concern, prompting a call from Welthungerhilfe’s Secretary General, Mathias Mogge, for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations.
In 2024, Welthungerhilfe received €383.5 million for project work, with an entrusted amount of €86.5 million from donors. Public donors allocated €291.9 million towards the organization’s programs, with German federal funds accounting for over 50% of this total. The World Food Programme was the largest single donor at €71.4 million, followed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development at €67.6 million and the Foreign Office at €60.4 million. Project funding was primarily directed towards South Sudan, Syria, Turkey and Sudan.
