The article highlights that as many as 828 million persons globally are hungry and without adequate access to food. In the face of severe global food insecurity and hunger, the food that women produce helps to alleviate and prevent conflict. Yet, an estimated 70% of those killed during violent conflicts are unarmed civilians, many of whom are women and children. Also, programs that incorporate trauma support and peacebuilding skills for women who are victims of violent conflict tend to be more sustainable livelihood projects that are vitally important in vulnerable communities, where women are often the bedrock of food production as smallholder farmers. They are frequently the heart and soul of peacebuilding, pursuing well-being and a just peace. Published by Mennonite Central Committee U.S. (July 10, 2023). Read more

The article articulates the need for a robust global collaboration in responding to the effects of COVID – 19. It premises an argument on the fact that in 2020, an additional 88 million to 115 million people were pushed into extreme poverty due to violent conflicts, climate change, and COVID-19. The stresses to global food systems caused by the pandemic have been severe. It points out that as a human family, we must find creative ways to make resources available for all communities to combat infection, which allows people to work or grow their own food. Published by Mennonite Central Committee U.S. (May 27, 2021). Read more. Referenced in Books. Disarmed: The Radical Life and Legacy of Michael “MJ” Sharp

The article explores the adverse effects of government policies that thwart poverty reduction progress, and how women, babies and children are the most adversely affected. Around the globe, 1 out of 7 newborns has a low birth weight, and 151 million children are stunted. Every day, about 830 women die from preventable complications related to pregnancy or childbirth, and 7,000 babies die in the first month of life. To get back on track and achieve the ambitious goal of zero hunger by 2030, wealthy countries will need to increase support for programs to enhance access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food. Improved nutrition will lead to improved health for lactating mothers and children. Published by Anabaptist World (September 30, 2019). Read more. This article was originally published by Mennonite World Review

The article reminds us that militarized approach continues to make the situation violence worse. It has increased food insecurity, forced displacement and human rights abuses. In contrast, a holistic humanitarian approach would cost less and would help communities to build resilience and be better prepared to withstand future violence and disasters. It calls us to advocate and influence policymakers to offer a robust support for peacebuilding interventions that reduce prejudice and build trust. Published by PeaceSigns (March 29, 2019). Read more

The article reinstates the importance of U.S. foreign assistance budget, due to the fact that the massive displacement of farmers is caused by escalated conflicts and drought, and contributing to the problem of food security around the world.  According to the 2018 Global Report on Food Crises, about 124 million people were affected by acute food insecurity in 2017 and 74 million of them are in urgent need of life-saving assistance. Published by PeaceSigns (March 28, 2018). Read more