How the pandemic has caused an alarming spike in world hunger

The United Nations confirms an urgent need to help the most vulnerable through the outbreak

We know the pandemic has caused a huge disruption to the world, worsening world hunger, and now the United Nations has released data showing 811-million people were undernourished in 2020.

“More than 2.3-billion people (or 30 percent of the global population) lacked year-round access to adequate food: this indicator — known as the prevalence of moderate or severe food insecurity — leapt in one year as much in as the preceding five combined,” says the United Nations.

Africa displayed the biggest spike in hunger (21 percent). That’s more than double of any other region.

At Children Believe, we continue to work with our partners and communities to provide urgent relief during the pandemic. Thanks to our donors, we’ve provided food rations and food vouchers, so families can be fed.

Learn more about how we’re helping families through malnutrition caused by the pandemic.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.

About Inspiring Stories

June 2026

Inside Zam: Where Violence Follows Children Into t...

Children in Zam, Burkina Faso are rebuilding their education after conflict and displacement. See how community-led support is restoring safety, learning, and hope.

June 2026

Souraya: From a Victim of Exploitation to a Hopefu...

Souraya, a young girl from conflict‑affected Burkina Faso, escapes exploitation and rebuilds her life through psychosocial support, skills training, and entrepreneurship with the help of Children Believe and partners. Her inspiring journey shows the power of protection, resilience, and hope.

June 2026

Inside Mancico: Where Children Wake Before Dawn to...

Inside Mancico, Nicaragua’s Dry Corridor, children wake before dawn to collect water. Discover how extreme drought, climate pressures, and limited resources impact education—and how new rainwater harvesting systems are bringing hope to families.