The global food crisis is man-made – and for the most part it’s been made in the West. Now it is down to western governments to help turn the crisis around.
The causes are complex, yet familiar. Long-term problems relating to unfair trade and food production have combined with factors such as climate change, the increase in biofuel production and global economic instability to create a ‘perfect storm’.
Tackling the crisis needs our leaders to address these issues now and into the future. We need to make sure they do this. Here's what you can do.
1. Donate to our Africa food crisis appeal
The most immediate way you can help is by making a donation.
Christian Aid has launched an emergency appeal in support of the millions of people across Africa facing food shortages and malnutrition.
Find out more - and donate now.
2. Demand trade justice
Unfair trade deals can crush farmers in poor countries, exposing them to unfair competition from cheap imports and forcing cuts to agricultural spending. This leaves countries more exposed to global price fluctuations because they’re not growing enough food of their own.
The European Union is currently pushing through deals which will continue to put pressure on poor countries to adopt rules that undermine their own people.
Demand an end to EU trade bullying – lobby your MEP.
3. Tackle climate change
Increasingly harsh weather due to climate change is already a factor in the unfolding crisis – droughts and heavy rainfall have wrecked food production around the world, contributing to shortages and price hikes.
This is only going to get worse unless climate change is effectively tackled.
The UK Parliament is currently debating the world’s first climate change bill. And though the bill is welcome it doesn’t go far enough.
UK companies must be made to play their part by declaring their annual carbon emissions.
Help strengthen the Climate Change Bill – email your MP.
Other steps
Read our report on the food crisis
Fighting food shortages, which spells out Christian Aid’s stance on the causes of the crisis – and its recommendations for what the UK and in the international community as a whole can do about it. Download now (527kb pdf)
Read our food diaries
Firsthand accounts of the impact of the food crisis from Christian Aid partner staff in the worst-hit countries. Read more
Get the latest
Keep up with how Christian Aid is tackling the food crisis. More