World Bank Q1 2026 Food Security Update
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: Global fertilizer prices were gradually stabilizing after the peak supply shocks of the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war. NOW: The World Bank identifies renewed risks of extreme price spikes due to potential maritime disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
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BEFORE: Food security projections anticipated a slow but steady recovery in global hunger metrics post-pandemic. NOW: The Q1 2026 report projects 45 million additional people facing acute hunger by mid-2026 due to compounded climate and conflict shocks.
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BEFORE: Agricultural supply chain concerns were primarily focused on the Black Sea region and weather patterns like El Nino. NOW: The primary geopolitical risk focus has expanded to Middle East maritime chokepoints and their cascading impact on global freight and agricultural input costs.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
With Reference ToWith reference to the World Bank Q1 2026 Food Security Update, consider the following statements: 1. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are projected to trigger severe spikes in global fertilizer and agrifood prices. 2. The report projects that climate shocks and conflict could push an additional 45 million people into acute hunger by mid-2026. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?