The Global Rundown
Sanitation deteriorates as Boko Haram destroys toilets and water points in Nigeria. Climate change, water shortages, and crumbling ground push Mexico City toward collapse. UNICEF declares that 1 million children need humanitarian assistance as violence in eastern Ukraine continues. UN aid agencies are carefully monitoring new military operations in Mosul, Iraq, which is suffering from critical food and water shortages. Millions are at risk of starvation over the next six months as four separate famines develop in Africa and the Middle East.
“This is an invisible emergency – a crisis most of the world has forgotten.” — UNICEF’s Representative in Ukraine, Giovanna Barberis, in reference to Ukraine’s escalating humanitarian crisis. The four-year conflict in eastern Ukraine has left many without access to water, heat, healthcare, and other amenities. According to the aid agency, the number of children in need of assistance has doubled in the past year. UN News Centre
By The Numbers
20 million Number of people facing starvation as famines devastate East Africa, Nigeria, South Sudan, and Yemen. As food prices soar in the famine-stricken areas, demand for resources is outstripping humanitarian aid. Reuters
1.8 million Number of people displaced in Nigeria by terrorist organization Boko Haram. The group is also responsible for destroying three-quarters of the latrines and water points in northeast Nigeria, leaving an average of one toilet per 100 displaced people. Open defecation and limited access to water are further aggravating the poor sanitation conditions. Reuters
Science, Studies, And Reports
Military operations to retake western Mosul from ISIL are set to begin in Iraq, prompting UN humanitarian agencies to prepare for “all scenarios.” According to the report, access to food and water is already severely restricted in the city due to past fighting. UN News Centre
On The Radar
Mexico City is no stranger to water issues, but climate change has further complicated the city’s woes. Frequent drought is forcing Mexico City to drill deeper for water, causing the clay foundation beneath it to crumble. As the city sinks, political tensions and local violence intensify. New York Times
Kayla Ritter is a recent graduate of Michigan State University, where she studied International Relations and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. She is currently based in Manton, Michigan. Kayla enjoys running, writing, and traveling. Contact Kayla Ritter
