Abstract
Despite sufficient global food supplies, food insecurity remains a persistent problem in many countries. In recent years, conflict has emerged as one of the key drivers of acute food insecurity, affecting hundreds of millions of people worldwide. The situation has worsened since 2022, as the impacts of the Russia-Ukraine war are felt worldwide. This Article investigates food security challenges arising from armed conflicts and proposes potential solutions to tackle these challenges. It first examines the right to food as enshrined in both international and national laws. These legal frameworks set out the rules that govern the responsibilities of States and conflicting parties as well as relief actions during armed conflicts. Through the case studies of Sudan, Somalia, Congo, Ethiopia, and Ukraine, this Article identifies two key impediments to upholding the right to food in conflict-affected areas: a state’s failure to perform its obligations and inadequate international humanitarian aid. In response, the Article proposes two solutions to mitigate conflict-induced food insecurity: strengthening accountability and justice for serious violations of international law and improving the efficiency as well as the effectiveness of international food aid programs. A long road remains ahead, but with commitment, the world can collaborate to support the realization of the right to food during armed conflicts.