Famine in Gaza City: An Urgent Humanitarian Crisis
Introduction
The recent confirmation of famine in the Gaza City region by a global hunger monitor has sparked concern and outrage around the world. According to the International Panel on Climate Change (IPC), more than half a million people in and around Gaza City are facing catastrophic conditions “characterized by starvation, destitution and death.” This dire situation is a result of a combination of factors, including ongoing conflict, economic instability, and the impact of climate change.
Key Details
The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been a major factor in the humanitarian crisis in Gaza City. The region has been under a crippling blockade for over a decade, severely limiting access to food, water, and other essential resources. This has only been exacerbated by the recent violence and destruction in the area. In addition, the economic instability in Gaza has led to high unemployment and food insecurity. With over 70% of the population living in poverty, many families are struggling to put food on the table.
Impact
The impact of the famine in Gaza City is devastating, with innocent civilians, especially women and children, bearing the brunt of the crisis. Malnutrition rates are on the rise, and the lack of access to clean water and sanitation has led to the spread of diseases such as cholera. The situation is particularly dire for those living in refugee camps, where overcrowding and limited resources make it even
About the Organizations Mentioned
International Panel on Climate Change
The **Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)** is a United Nations body established in 1988 by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to provide governments worldwide with authoritative, science-based information on climate change to guide policy decisions[1][2][3]. It is composed of 195 member countries and operates through a secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland hosted by the WMO[1][3]. The IPCC does not conduct original research; instead, it synthesizes and assesses the vast body of peer-reviewed scientific literature on climate change, including its physical science basis, socio-economic impacts, risks, and mitigation and adaptation strategies. Thousands of volunteer scientists from member countries participate in this rigorous, transparent process, producing comprehensive Assessment Reports approximately every six to seven years. These reports undergo multiple rounds of expert and governmental review, making the IPCC’s work the largest peer-review process in the scientific community[1][2][3][4]. Since its first Assessment Report in 1990, the IPCC has played a critical role in building global scientific consensus on climate change, its impacts, and policy options, influencing international climate negotiations such as under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. In recognition of its contribution to raising awareness and understanding of climate risks, the IPCC was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007[1][5]. Currently in its sixth assessment cycle, concluded with a synthesis report in 2023, the IPCC continues to provide up-to-date, robust scientific evidence essential for governments and businesses to develop effective climate policies and innovations. Its reports also guide major research funding and global climate strategies, including those by the European Union and other stakeholders in business and technology sectors[2][5][6]. Notably, the IPCC’s consensus-driven approach sometimes faces criticism from various perspectives, but it remains the most trusted and comprehensive source of climate science globally, vital
World Health Organization
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations, established in 1948, with a mandate to promote global health, coordinate international responses to public health threats, and set standards for health policies and interventions[2]. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO operates in over 150 countries, working with governments, NGOs, and other partners to advance health equity, strengthen health systems, and respond to health emergencies. ## What WHO Does WHO’s core activities include monitoring global health trends, setting international health standards, providing technical assistance to countries, and serving as a forum for scientific and policy discussions on health issues[2]. The organization publishes influential reports such as the annual **World Health Statistics**, which tracks progress toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and provides a global “health report card”[1][8]. WHO also maintains the Model List of Essential Medicines, guiding countries on which drugs are most critical for public health[7]. In addition, WHO leads global campaigns on issues ranging from infectious disease eradication to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), maternal and child health, and health emergencies[2][6]. ## History and Key Achievements WHO’s history is marked by landmark achievements, including the eradication of smallpox, near-eradication of polio, and the development of an Ebola vaccine[2]. The organization played a pivotal role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, coordinating global research, vaccine distribution, and public health guidance. In May 2025, WHO member states adopted the world’s first **Pandemic Agreement**, a historic step to improve international coordination and equity in future health crises[4]. WHO also spearheads initiatives like the Triple Billion Targets (healthier lives, universal health coverage, and protection from health emergencies) and technical policy packages targeting tobacco, alcohol, salt, and trans fat reduction[1][2]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects WHO is currently implementing its **Fou
