Food Insecurity Risk for Women and Girls in the Middle East Set to Rise

Growing Concerns Over Food Insecurity

A recent report highlights alarming projections regarding the food insecurity levels for women and girls in the Middle East. By the end of 2026, approximately 11.7 million women and girls could be affected, particularly in regions already facing vulnerability.

Countries Most at Risk

The study identifies populous nations as having the highest absolute numbers of women and girls at risk. However, places like South Sudan, Sudan, Yemen, Palestine, and Haiti exhibit more acute threats, where overlapping vulnerabilities heighten the risk.

In South Sudan, the potential increase in food insecurity could affect around 14% of the female population—this translates to roughly one in seven women. Lebanon follows closely, where nearly 4% of women may also face similar challenges.

The Gender Disparity in Food Insecurity

In many affected regions, women and girls disproportionately represent those who are food insecure. For instance, in Afghanistan, they account for around 60% of individuals facing food shortages. This trend continues in Yemen and Sudan, where figures indicate that over 57% and nearly 56% of food insecure individuals are women and girls, respectively.

Employment, or the lack thereof, significantly impacts food security. In countries like Egypt, Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, and Syria, about 80% of women are out of the labor force, and this figure escalates to approximately 95% in Afghanistan and Yemen. For those employed, a staggering majority—over 80%—find themselves in precarious job situations, particularly in countries such as Afghanistan, South Sudan, and others.

Barriers to Financial Services

The analysis points towards limited access to financial services as another factor exacerbating food insecurity. In Iraq, Lebanon, Pakistan, and Yemen, fewer than one in five women possess a bank or mobile money account. This limitation severely constrains women's ability to save, receive funds, or access loans, thereby increasing their dependence on insecure and unsafe financial options.

Urgent Call for Integrated Solutions

UN Women emphasizes the necessity for a cohesive response that includes not only food and cash aid but also nutrition, protection, and livelihood support. There’s an urgent need for women to access essential resources, such as land and credit, crucial for sustainable livelihoods.

Additionally, the organization advocates for targeted efforts in regions where women and girls face multiple risks, ensuring timely delivery of resources—especially before agricultural cycles begin. Enhanced data collection is vital for understanding the rising food insecurity, who is experiencing it, and the contextual changes affecting households.

Advocating for Peace and Security

In light of these concerning trends, UN Women calls for de-escalation of tensions and adherence to international law. The organization supports the Secretary-General's appeal for all involved parties to pursue diplomatic strategies that foster both regional and global peace.