Topic: 2024-Famine in Conflict Zones
Country: Egypt
Delegate Name: Mackenzee Stanley-Eldred
Egypt, as a country deeply committed to global food security, calls for an immediate addressing of famine in conflict zones. Famine, specifically in conflict zones, was estimated to have caused between 8,000 and 21,000 deaths per day in 2023. Famine and food-insecurity are issues that closely resonate with Egypt, as Egypt has battled a long history of food scarcity, particularly during periods of regional instability. The Republic of Egypt believes that no long-term solution to famine in conflict zones can be achieved without addressing the improvement of humanitarian access and targeted attacks.
During the 1970s, Egypt faced significant food shortages due to the combined impact of regional conflicts and agricultural challenges. This history has shaped Egypt’s understanding of the devastating effects of famine, not just on human life, but on political stability and economic development. Egypt has actively contributed to alleviating famine in conflict zones through humanitarian aid and regional cooperation. In 2020, Egypt’s Arab League initiative contributed a $50 million aid package to support food security in conflict zones where ongoing violence has aggravated hunger.
International law mandates the protection of humanitarian groups, yet ongoing violations, such as the deliberate targeting of medical facilities and relief workers, continue to obstruct efforts to alleviate suffering. Addressing these challenges requires stronger enforcement of international humanitarian law, greater political pressure on conflicting parties, and enhanced security for aid operations to ensure that lifesaving assistance can be delivered without obstruction or violence.
Egypt emphasizes the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches those in need without interference from ongoing conflicts. In addition, Egypt calls for tougher international sanctions against those who target aid workers, infrastructure, and food supplies.
Sources:
Al-Ahram Online, “Egypt’s Role in Regional Humanitarian Efforts,” 2020.
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), “Humanitarian Access in Conflict Zones,” 2023.
International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), “Ensuring Protection for Aid Workers,” 2022.
