23 September 2025

For the first time famine has been confirmed in two different parts of the world at the same time – the first ever famine in the Middle East, in Gaza, and in Sudan, where famine has persisted for over a year amid the largest hunger and displacement crisis on the planet. In this session panelists will discuss how experts determine when a famine is taking place, and what urgent actions are now needed from world leaders to save lives in Gaza and Sudan.

Speakers:

  • Philippe Lazzarini, UNRWA Commission-General
  • Carl Skau, WFP Deputy Executive Director
  • Edem Wosornu, OCHA Director Operations and Advocacy

Moderator:

  • Ian Philips, Director, News and Media Division, UN Department of Global Communications