Starvation

Starving people
Death from starvation

Nature

Starvation is the state of an organism that is completely deprived of food, has an insufficient food intake, or suffers from disturbances in its assimilation of food. In man it may result from deprivation or insufficiency of food, the impairment of food intake, or specifically from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Starvation is considered complete if only water enters the organism; incomplete if food enters, but in an insufficient amount in relation to general energy output; and absolute when neither food nor water are taken in. How long life can be sustained under conditions of starvation depends upon varying factors: body weight (the greater the weight, the greater the energy reserve supply); age (children are most susceptible, the middle-aged most resistant); sex (women have a greater chance for survival); expenditure of energy (the less expenditure, the greater the endurance time); and peculiarities of each individual. The maximum length of time of starvation for man is considered to be 65-70 days (in absolute starvation, only a few days).

Background

Starvation emerged as a recognized global crisis during the 19th century, notably with famines in Ireland and India drawing international attention. Its significance intensified in the 20th century, as photographic documentation of mass starvation in regions like Bengal, Biafra, and Ethiopia galvanized humanitarian response and policy debate. Increasingly, starvation has been understood not only as a consequence of natural disasters but also of conflict, political neglect, and systemic inequities, prompting ongoing international monitoring and intervention.

Incidence

Between 10 and 15 million people starve to death worldwide each year.

The FAO lists fifteen countries which need exceptional or emergency assistance to prevent starvation: Angola, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Haiti, Jamaica, Laos, Lebanon, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Peru, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Vietnam.

Claim

Starvation is a devastating crisis that demands urgent global attention. It is unacceptable that in a world of abundance, millions still suffer and die from lack of food. This is not just a humanitarian issue—it is a moral failure. Ignoring starvation perpetuates inequality, fuels conflict, and destroys futures. We must prioritize eradicating hunger, invest in sustainable solutions, and hold leaders accountable. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye any longer.

Counter-claim

Claiming that starvation is not an important problem is both misguided and irresponsible. Dismissing the suffering of millions who lack basic nutrition ignores a fundamental human right and undermines global efforts to combat poverty and inequality. Starvation is a critical issue that demands urgent attention, compassion, and action from all of us. To suggest otherwise is to turn a blind eye to preventable human tragedy.