More than one million people in Myanmar will be cut off from lifesaving food assistance provided by the World Food Programme (WFP) starting next month due to severe funding shortfalls, according to statements released by the agency on March 14, 2025.
These cuts come at a time when the country is experiencing heightened conflict, increased displacement, and access restrictions, which have sharply driven up the demand for food aid. "These cuts come just as increased conflict, displacement and access restrictions are already sharply driving up food aid needs," the WFP stated.
Myanmar, with a population of approximately 51 million, is facing dire humanitarian circumstances, with nearly 20 million individuals requiring assistance. An estimated 15.2 million—about one third of the population—are currently facing acute food insecurity. This situation has escalated since the military coup in early 2021, which ousted the democratically elected government and sparked widespread protests, leading to armed resistance against the ruling junta.
The WFP indicated it has been allocated about $4.4 billion from the U.S. for its global food program out of the total budget of $9.7 billion for 2024. Yet, significant cuts have been made to foreign aid under the previous Trump administration, raising questions about the sustainability of assistance efforts. Although the WFP did not directly attribute the funding shortfall to the Trump administration's policies, experts note the impact of such reductions on aid operations.
Michael Dunford, WFP's country director for Myanmar, expressed concern over the worsening situation, stating, "The situation nationwide is continuing to deteriorate. The international community must not forget the people of Myanmar at this time of need. If we do not receive immediate funding support, we will only be able to assist around 35,000 of the most vulnerable people, including children under five, pregnant or lactacting women, and individuals with disabilities."
The WFP's statement also underscored the fact this funding crisis coincides with increased humanitarian needs, as people struggle amid conflict and displacement. “These cuts are happening at the same time as rising conflict, displacement, and access restrictions are already sharply increasing the need for food assistance,” it indicated, urging for immediate financial support.
Humanitarian experts estimate around 15 million people are unable to meet their daily food needs, and the situation is dire. Reports indicate the worst of the food scarcity is anticipated between July and September, coinciding with the peak of seasonal difficulties.
Despite warning signs from the United Nations, which previously noted the Rakhine state facing severe food security threats, the global response has trailed behind the growing crisis. The WFP's role remains pivotal, as the agency is one of the largest humanitarian organizations capable of addressing these acute food needs.
Despite the dire situation, the commitment from the international community has waned, which could have tragic consequences. The conflict has resulted not only in widespread hunger but also hindered humanitarian access to those in need. This limitation continues to exacerbate the crisis, leaving millions vulnerable and dependent on international aid.
Myanmar's military coup not only resulted in political unrest but also disrupted the already fragile social fabric, amplifying issues surrounding poverty and security. With different factions vying for power and control, access to basic necessities—including food—was significantly compromised. The World Food Programme’s intervention has been one of the few lifelines for many, yet their current funding shortages redirect the already dwindling support.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which provides significant funding to the WFP, governs its allocation budget tightly. With about $42.8 billion allocated this past year, USAID's budget only accounts for approximately 0.7 to 1.4% of the total U.S. budget over the past 25 years, emphasizing the constrained fiscal environment humanitarian agencies operate within.
The cuts to food aid are sure to impact not only the immediate recipients but also lead to long-term socioeconomic ramifications across the nation, particularly for marginalized groups, including the Rohingya who face persistent discrimination and hardship.
UN human rights experts have underscored the urgency for international attention and support, indicating the world must not turn its back on the humanitarian plight of Myanmar’s citizens. “Despite the institutional and fiscal barriers, the world must come together to avert this humanitarian catastrophe,” they plead.
The need is clear: immediate action is required to restore funding and address the humanitarian needs manifesting throughout the country. The conflict and resulting food insecurity must prompt swift international response before the situation deteriorates even worse.