asynchronous 10: Basic Factors, cont'd (Conflict, the COVID pandemic...)

1. Explain, using the UNICEF Framework and with specific examples, how basic factors such as conflict, the climate crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic increase risk for food insecurity, hunger, and malnutrition (especially among vulnerable groups).

A) Conflict as a Basic Cause of Malnutrition 🔹 Signs and Symptoms of Undernutrition (from DRC & South Sudan):

• Signs: Wasting (thin limbs), stunted growth, swollen bellies, visible bones, weakness

• Symptoms: Constant hunger, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, increased illness

🔹 UNICEF Framework Analysis:

• Basic Causes:

  • Conflict destroys farms, markets, clinics, water systems, and schools

  • Displacement limits food access and safe living conditions

• Underlying Causes:

  • Lack of food access and clean water

  • Poor caregiving (due to stress, displacement, loss of support)

  • Collapsed health systems

• Immediate Causes:

  • Inadequate food intake

  • High disease burden (e.g., diarrhea, infections)

🔹 What Needs to Be Done:

• Emergency food aid (e.g., RUTF for children)

• Support health and nutrition services in conflict zones

• Improve water, sanitation, and healthcare

• Rebuild community support systems and promote peacebuilding

B) COVID-19 Pandemic as a Basic Cause of Malnutrition 🔹 UNICEF Framework Analysis:

• Basic Causes:

  • Lockdowns caused job losses and economic strain

  • School closures cut off access to school meals and care

  • Long COVID reduced ability to work or carry out daily activities

• Underlying Causes:

  • Families lost income → couldn’t afford food

  • Rise in food prices made nutritious food inaccessible

  • Reduced access to healthcare and support services

• Immediate Causes:

  • Poor diet quality and quantity

  • Increased disease risk due to weakened health systems

🔹 What Needs to Be Done:

• Support low-income families with cash/food aid

• Reintroduce school feeding programs

• Ensure access to essential health and nutrition services

• Strengthen food systems and prepare for future health crises

Use the World Food Programme's Hunger Map to explore current data regarding hunger, conflict, and other hazards throughout the world.

Apply your learning from FNH 355 to analyze and explain aspects of current global crises (including conflict).

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