During times of war and conflict, the production and distribution of food are disrupted as farmers are forced to leave their land, making way for the movement of troops and violence. This disruption reduces the food available for the already vulnerable populations, driving up the price of food to levels in which the struggling populations cannot afford. Conflict can create refugees who cannot return to their home country or farmland, exacerbating the problem.
Destruction of Crops and Livestock
War and conflict often lead to the deliberate destruction of crops and livestock, either as a tactic to starve the enemy population or as a result of the chaos of warfare. This destruction further decreases the food available to people in need.
Displacement and Loss of Livelihoods
Displacement of people due to conflict forces them to leave their homes and farms, taking away their means of producing food. This displacement, especially when done on a large scale, disrupts the traditional supply chains of food and can lead to food shortages in areas already facing hunger and malnutrition.
Trade and Market Disruptions
Conflict and war disrupt trade and market activities, making it harder to transport food and other essential supplies to those in need, increasing the cost of those supplies and reducing the availability of food on the market. When trade and market activities are not functioning properly, and access to markets and transportation channels are disrupted, prices can rise sharply and food shortages can quickly worsen.
Loss of Infrastructure and Services
War can damage or destroy vital infrastructure and services, including transportation, storage facilities, and market places. This can further disrupt the food supply and limit access to food for people who rely on these services to get the food they need.