Food Insecurity in Armed Conflict - IHL TALK

10.12.2024 18:15 – 20:00

Hunger, famine, and starvation have been recurrent features of past and present armed conflicts, with conflict being a key driver of acute food insecurity. In turn, food insecurity can also fuel armed conflict, creating a vicious cycle of insecurity and violence. When combined with other factors, such as resource scarcity, conflict-created environmental damage, extreme weather or economic shocks, these risks rise sharply. The United Nations General Assembly and Security Council have recognised the link between conflict-driven food insecurity, and, interconnectedly, the risk of famine, and the unlawful denial of access to humanitarian assistance to civilians in armed conflict and possible threats to international peace and security.

Armed conflict impacts food security in many ways. It destroys or disrupts food systems and infrastructure, affects markets and prices, and reduces access to essential goods and services. Sieges and siege-like tactics significantly worsen these risks. The repercussions often continue long after military operations have ended, spreading to distant populations through price shocks and supply disruptions.

At a time when conflicts across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia heavily affect civilians, many populations face emergency levels of acute food insecurity and high risks of famine. This IHL Talk, held in conjunction with the launch of the first spot report under the IHL in Focus project on Food Insecurity in Armed Conflict and the Use of Siege-Like Tactics, will explore the intersection of armed conflict and food insecurity, through the lens of international humanitarian and human rights law.

Lieu

In person :
Villa Moynier, 120B Rue de Lausanne, Geneva

Or online on Zoom

entrée libre