Funding cuts threaten millions with hunger as UN's food program struggles

The UN World Food Programme is facing a massive funding shortfall, resulting in reductions in food aid around the world. For every 1% cut in funding, 400,000 people are pushed further into hunger. The program has been cut by half, affecting approximately 20 million people. Rations have been reduced, and some people have been completely cut off from receiving food assistance. The situation is particularly dire in Afghanistan, where 8 million people have been cut from assistance, and another 2 million will be dropped soon. The lack of food assistance not only affects food security but also breeds instability, making it a national security issue. The executive director of the World Food Programme, Cindy McCain, expresses the heartache and frustration of not being able to help those in need. Despite the challenges, there are some success stories in Central America and in programs such as school feeding and cash-based transfers, but overall, there is a critical need for more funding to prevent starvation and promote stability.