UN reports 84% of Yemen’s displaced can’t meet daily food needs.

In a pressing announcement, the United Nations has revealed that a staggering 84% of Yemen’s displaced population is unable to meet their daily food requirements, highlighting a dire situation where “parents are starving so their children can eat.”

A Grim Reality Unfolds

This information was shared in a statement by the UN Refugee Agency on its website, shedding light on the distressing reality many families face. Often, these families resort to consuming cheaper or smaller meals to stretch their limited resources. Marin Dean Kaydom Shai, the UNHCR representative in Yemen, shared a heart-wrenching account of a father from Hodeidah who is forced to ration food, making heartbreaking decisions to ensure his children have something to eat each day. This scenario, as Shai points out, is a harsh reality for countless families across Yemen.

Overlooked Crisis: The Lack of Civil Documentation

The update also brought attention to an often-overlooked crisis: the lack of civil documentation. According to the UNHCR, more than half of the families have at least one child without a birth certificate, and 70% of families have members without national identity cards. These documents are not just pieces of paper; they are keys to accessing essential services, education, and rights. Without them, families face significant barriers in receiving aid and capitalizing on opportunities.

The Urgent Need for Protection and Aid

Beyond food insecurity, the update emphasized the urgent protection needs of displaced communities. Nearly every family has at least one member who is vulnerable, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities. The UNHCR is calling for increased humanitarian aid to ensure these families receive the support they need to survive and rebuild their lives.

A Call to Action

The situation in Yemen demands immediate attention and action. The UN’s report underscores the critical need for enhanced humanitarian assistance to address the multifaceted crises faced by displaced families. As the international community looks on, the resilience of Yemen’s people is tested daily, necessitating a concerted effort to provide relief and hope for a better future.

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