Indian perspectives on the G20 summit 2017: four famines in an interconnected world: what can the G20 do?

Abstract: Nearly 20 million people in Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen are facing what has been described as the largest food crisis in the world in 70 years. Conflict is the main reason behind these famines, abetted by drought, climate change, poverty, and the existing vulnerability of the people in these countries. Security issues have led to a dramatic decline in agricultural production and have adversely affected the supply and distribution of food. Moreover, conflict makes the transport of humanitarian supplies to remote areas difficult, hindering the ability of international agencies to help affected populations. To begin with, United Nations (UN) agencies are facing a huge funding gap. This brief calls upon G20 members to work towards durable political solutions to resolve conflicts in famine-stricken countries and make generous contributions for emergency relief. It suggests long-term measures, such as a regional grain reserve for Africa, climate-change mitigation, and agricultural support.

Post description

  • Publication year: 2017
  • Content type: Brief
  • Form of cooperation: Comprehensive
  • Cooperation context: Multilateral
  • Region (country): Africa
  • Sector: Multisectoral; agriculture; environment
  • Institution (publication): Observer Research Foundation
  • Author (and co-authors): Malancha Chakrabarty
  • Keywords: G20 summit; Climate change mitigation
  • Link: ORF site