HeraldLoop
ReliefWeb

ReliefWeb — page 25

539 articlesreliefweb.int ↗

Coverage, page 25

page 25 of 27

UNHCR-IOM Pakistan Flash update # 110 on Arrest and Detention/Flow Monitoring, 15 Sep 2023 to 5 Sep 2026

Countries: Pakistan, Afghanistan Sources: International Organization for Migration, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Please refer to the attached file. In response to the Ministry of Interior's (MoI) decision of 26 September 2023 to enact an “Illegal Foreigners' Repatriation Plan”, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and IOM, the UN Migration Agency, have collated their data on the arrest, detention, and deportation of Proof of Registration (PoR) holders, Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, and undocumented Afghan nationals as well as on the outflows of Afghan nationals at the Torkham, Ghulam Khan, Chaman, Badini and Bahramcha border crossing points, to better understand the protection environment and movements of Afghan nationals returning to Afghanistan from Pakistan. In 2025, the Government of Pakistan (GoP) issued several directives impacting Afghan nationals. In January, the GoP announced that Afghan nationals should relocate from Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and Rawalpindi, or else face deportation. In April, further announcements indicated the implementation of the second phase of the “IFRP”, targeting ACC holders, in addition to undocumented Afghans. In July, the GoP issued a Statutory Regulation Order (SRO) directing the repatriation/deportation of PoR card holders following the expiry of PoR card validity on 30 June. The GoP later indicated a deadline of 1 September for PoR holders to leave Pakistan, before the start of the repatriation/deportation process. UNHCR issued a press briefing expressing concern regarding the decision and urging the GoP to exempt Afghans with international protection needs, as well as those with particular circumstances or vulnerabilities, from involuntary return.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•UN High Commissioner for Refugees11 Sept

South Sudan: UN Commission warns of growing risks to civilians and democratic transition as violence and impunity persist

Country: South Sudan Source: UN Human Rights Council Please refer to the attached file. JUBA/GENEVA (10 September 2026) – The UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan has concluded its 14th visit to the country, expressing deep concern that renewed violence, political tensions, shrinking civic space, entrenched corruption and persistent impunity continue to place civilians and the country's political transition at risk. During its four-day visit, the Commission engaged with Government authorities, political and security actors, civil society representatives, victims and survivors, humanitarian and international partners, members of the legal community and other stakeholders. The Commission Chair, Yasmin Sooka, undertook a field visit to Bor, where she met with Government authorities, civil society and humanitarian actors, as well as survivors of the recent fighting in the northern part of Jonglei State. Survivors, including women and girls, recounted harrowing experiences of sexual violence, killings, displacement and separation from their families. Several described being left without access to medical, psychosocial or other essential support, including survivors with serious and urgent health needs. “Visit after visit, we continue to hear from people who bear the consequences of violence, displacement, insecurity and the failures of those with political and security responsibilities to prevent and address those harms. What troubles us most is that we continue to hear similar stories of suffering – families uprooted from their homes, communities living in fear, women and girls facing serious violations, and people struggling to access even the most basic services. The patterns have changed little, while the human cost continues to grow. South Sudanese people deserve better than to have their lives shaped by recurring cycles of violence and uncertainty,” said Chairperson Yasmin Sooka . The Commission remains concerned about killings, displacement, attacks affecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, disruption of humanitarian operations and growing insecurity for humanitarian personnel. These developments underscore the urgent need for all parties to comply fully with their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law and take concrete measures to protect civilians. The humanitarian needs facing South Sudan are enormous, but funding is falling far short of what is required, forcing humanitarian partners to scale back assistance even as needs continue to rise. Continued support for humanitarian operations, and for UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and its civilian protection mandate, is critical. The people of South Sudan cannot afford for the international response to retreat while the crisis is deepening. The Commission is particularly concerned by the attack on a UNMISS patrol in Jonglei, in which two peacekeepers were killed and others injured, and calls for a prompt, thorough and independent investigation into the attack and for those responsible to be held accountable, in accordance with due process and international standards. The Commission's visit comes at a pivotal point as South Sudan prepares for planned December elections. In its August 2026 Advisory, At the Brink: Preventing Atrocity Crimes and Safeguarding South Sudan's Transition , the Commission warned that elections without essential safeguards and genuine and inclusive political dialogue could fuel renewed conflict and increase the risk of atrocity crimes. The Commission reiterates that the holding of elections must be accompanied by the conditions necessary to ensure meaningful political participation, respect for fundamental freedoms, civilian protection and confidence in the electoral process. “The political failures of South Sudan’s leaders continue to reproduce the conditions for damaging violence. Implementation of the Revitalized Agreement has stalled, but its objectives for delivering a transformed, democratic and peaceful South Sudan remain as relevant as ever, and must be protected. Even as the country heads for elections, political and civic space has narrowed, while many of the safeguards and conditions for peaceful and credible polls are still missing. South Sudanese do have a right to vote; that right must be protected by ensuring they can participate freely, compete fairly, and resolve any electoral disputes through credible adjudication. These are the safeguards that will prevent an election from becoming a trigger for violence and disruption,” said Commissioner Barney Afako . The Commission reiterated its call for genuine and inclusive political dialogue involving all relevant political actors, including First Vice President Riek Machar's SPLM-IO, holdout groups, civil society, women and youth. Such dialogue must be meaningful, sustained and aimed at resolving political differences through peaceful means. It also called for the release of detained political opponents unless they are promptly brought before an independent and impartial court in proceedings that fully comply with international human-rights standards and due process guarantees. In its engagements with the Government of South Sudan and the African Union, the Commission emphasized the urgent need for the establishment of the Hybrid Court for South Sudan and the full operationalization of the Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing and the Compensation and Reparation Authority as essential elements of a credible national accountability process and to address continuing impunity for serious human rights violations. During the visit, the Commission specifically noted the lack of progress since its 2025 report on corruption and economic crimes , which documented how entrenched corruption and the diversion and misallocation of public resources undermine the rights of South Sudanese. The Commission is concerned that the limited implementation of the report’s recommendations leaves underlying governance and accountability risks largely unaddressed. “All these years, the Commission has documented serious violations and identified the same underlying problem: impunity. Too often, those responsible for grave abuses have not been held accountable, while institutions responsible for justice remain weak and under-resourced. One year after our report on corruption, there has also been little meaningful implementation of its recommendations, and in some areas the situation has deteriorated further. When violations go unpunished and public resources are diverted without consequence, impunity becomes entrenched, and that breeds violence. South Sudan cannot break this cycle without credible accountability, functioning justice institutions and transparent management of the country's resources,” said Commissioner Carlos Castresana Fernández . The Commission stressed that the consequences of weak governance and corruption are felt directly by the population, particularly as humanitarian needs increase and international humanitarian funding becomes increasingly constrained. It urged the Government to strengthen public financial management, ensure transparency and independent oversight of public revenues and direct national resources towards essential public services. It further stressed that public resources must be managed in the public interest and that allegations of corruption and economic crimes require effective, independent and transparent investigation and, where warranted, prosecution. The Commission called on the Government and all political and armed actors to urgently support de-escalation and civilian protection, ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, create conditions for inclusive political dialogue, advance implementation of the Revitalized Agreement and strengthen credible accountability. It also called on regional and international partners, particularly the African Union, IGAD and the United Nations, to intensify preventive diplomacy and support an inclusive, consensus-based transition. The Commission urges these actors to use their influence to prevent further escalation and to ensure that commitments already made are translated into concrete action. “South Sudan still has a choice. The people of this country have waited long enough for peace, security and institutions that serve them. The country can move towards elections in a way that deepens division and conflict, or it can use this moment to restore political dialogue, protect civilians and put in place the safeguards needed for a peaceful and credible transition. What is needed now is genuine dialogue and political will – not another cycle of promises,” said Sooka. The Commission’s message is clear: the window to prevent further deterioration is narrowing. South Sudan’s leaders and institutions have an opportunity and a responsibility to take concrete steps to protect civilians, restore political dialogue, strengthen accountability and safeguard the country’s transition. The Commission will incorporate information gathered during the mission, including from its field visit to Bor, into its ongoing investigations and reporting to the United Nations Human Rights Council in February 2027. ENDS Background: The Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan is an independent body mandated by the United Nations Human Rights Council. First established in March 2016, it has been renewed annually since. The commissioners were appointed by the President of the UN Human Rights Council; they are not UN staff and do not receive a salary for their work as Commissioners. They are supported by a Secretariat based in Juba, South Sudan. More information about the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan can be found here . Follow the Commission on X (formerly Twitter) here , on Facebook here , and on YouTube here . For media queries, please contact: In Juba: Rajeev PS, Public Information Officer/Media Adviser, rajeev.puthenpurackalsunilkumar@un.org / +211912174078; in Geneva: Todd Pitman, Media Adviser, todd.pitman@un.org / +41766911761

ReliefWebReliefWeb•UN Human Rights Council11 Sept

WHO Sudan: Sudan Health Spotlight - August 2026

Country: Sudan Source: World Health Organization Please refer to the attached file. Monthly highlights • WHO continued to support the delivery of life-saving health services during this reporting period, including secondary and primary health care (PHC), referrals, immunisation, nutrition services, health education and capacity-building activities. More than 102 544 consultations were supported through WHO-supported hospitals and PHC facilities. • It also distributed 10.32 MT medical supplies to health facilities to prevent stockouts and maintain uninterrupted access to life-saving services. • WHO’s 2026 emergency appeal remains critically underfunded, with 19.3% of the required US$ 97.7 million received, constraining the scale-up of life-saving health interventions in conflict-, displacement-, outbreak-affected and hard-to-reach areas. • WHO strengthened laboratory capacities for timely outbreak confirmation for priority states, including deployment of a Mobile Public Health Laboratory to Blue Nile state to support detection and confirmation of dengue, hepatitis E and other epidemic-prone diseases. • The cholera outbreak continued to affect multiple localities, despite intensified prevention and control measures by health authorities and partners. WHO supported oral cholera vaccine (OCV) campaigns in high-risk states, and over 675 351 people aged 1 year and older have received the cholera vaccine.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•World Health Organization11 Sept

UNICEF Nepal Humanitarian Situation Report No. 3, 8 September 2026

Country: Nepal Source: UN Children's Fund Please refer to the attached file. Highlights An estimated 84,270 people, including 32,021 children and 1,854 persons with disabilities, are affected across 17 municipalities in six districts. As of 7 September, 3,630 displaced people are staying in 37 holding centres across three districts. Essential services remain severely disrupted, with 46 water supply systems, 23 schools and seven health facilities damaged. Critical WASH supplies have been provided for 48,600 people, and water supply systems serving 17,500 people have been restored. Mental health and psychosocial support have reached 1,952 people, including 782 children, through community interventions, and 2,893 people, including 1,382 children and adolescents, through specialist services. 541 unaccompanied and separated children have been reported to date, with 18 reunited with their families and follow-up support provided for all identified children. 112 children under-five have been screened for malnutrition, and 57 pregnant and breastfeeding women received infant and young child feeding counselling. Education supplies including student, school and early childhood development kits have been dispatched to support more than 9,500 children. Lifesaving information reached an estimated 1.67 million people through seven radio stations, alongside digital emergency information. US$17.2 million is required to meet the immediate needs of children and families affected by the flash floods.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•UN Children's Fund11 Sept

Well-being and Labor Market Outcomes of Refugees in Malaysia: Insights from the HARMONY Survey, September 2026

Countries: Malaysia, Myanmar Sources: UN High Commissioner for Refugees, World Bank Please refer to the attached file. Executive Summary As of July 2024, 191,710 refugees and asylum seekers have been registered with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency in Malaysia. Some 88 percent are from Myanmar, comprising 110,365 Rohingya and 58,423 individuals of other ethnic groups. The remaining individuals comprise some 22,922 refugees and asylum seekers from 50 countries fleeing war and persecution. The country has allowed refugees and asylum seekers to temporarily remain in the country on humanitarian grounds despite not being a signatory to the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. In the absence of a formal refugee policy, refugees face a myriad of challenges, including the lack of access to legal work, public education, and social protection as well as the risk of exploitation, discrimination, arbitrary arrest and detention. Consequently, many refugees live in a perpetual cycle of poverty and lack resilience in the event of socioeconomic shocks. The challenges faced by refugees due to their lack of legal rights in Malaysia are further exacerbated by the ambiguity surrounding the management of refugees and asylum seekers. This is particularly exemplified in their access to legal work, with discussions of potential policy changes spanning several administrations. The population is not allowed to work formally and there are no clear guidelines surrounding the nature of work if they work informally, nor are there regulations that protect refugees from exploitation. Additionally, refugees face challenges in accessing assets that contribute to productive work, such as access to financial services and driver’s licenses. Discourse on the issue continued throughout 2024, with an increased acknowledgment that legal work for refugees can potentially address labor market gaps. Recent developments include the reported revision of the National Security Council Directive No. 23 (Illegal Immigrants Holding UNHCR Cards Management Mechanism) to address refugees’ access to work, education, and other basic services. The Ministry of Human Resources has also been tasked with leading a Work Committee on Work Permits for Refugees, whose main function is to discuss proposals on work permits for refugees and asylum seekers in various sectors (Parliament of Malaysia 2024). The Malaysian government has also announced that it will conduct a comprehensive study on allowing refugees to work in specific sectors of the country to collect relevant information and data to inform future directions (Mahari 2024). This report is based on analysis of the Hosts and Refugees in the Malaysian Economy (HARMONY) Survey—the first systematic and detailed survey comparing refugee and host community households in Malaysia. A collaboration between UNHCR and the World Bank, this study aims to generate a holistic picture of refugees’ human capital and skills, working conditions, and economic well-being as informal workers in Malaysia. Through the generation of comparative economic data on refugees and host communities, the HARMONY Survey seeks to contribute to the development of policies and actions related to refugees’ access to productive and decent work. It provides a basis for comparative analyses of the socioeconomic and labor market profiles of different groups of refugees with host communities in Malaysia. The HARMONY Survey was conducted between December 2023 and April 2024 in three states (Johor, Pulau Pinang, and Selangor) and the federal territory of Kuala Lumpur, which together account for 76 percent of all refugees in the country. It covers 3,967 households, of which 2,533 are refugee households (1,149 Rohingya refugee households, 999 non-Rohingya Myanmar refugee households, 385 refugee households from other countries) and 1,434 are host community households (of Malaysian nationals living near refugees).

ReliefWebReliefWeb•World Bank11 Sept
R

World First Aid Day 2026: On the move, but not alone

Country: World Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Every year, people leave home and set out on journeys with no guarantee of safety, crossing deserts, crossing seas, walking for days through jungle. Wherever they're headed, danger can follow them the whole way, and first aid can mean the difference between life and death. That's the focus of this year's World First Aid Day: First Aid in Migration Contexts . It shines a light on the estimated 304 million people who, by mid-2024, were living as international migrants worldwide — 3.7% of the world's population. The IFRC uses a broad definition of migrants on purpose, to capture the full scope of humanitarian need: anyone on the move, no matter why they left home or their legal status. This includes asylum seekers, refugees, people displaced by conflict or disaster, undocumented workers, and people who migrate voluntarily for other reasons. How dangerous is the journey? Disasters, health crises, poverty, inequality, marginalisation, violence, and conflict all force people to move — usually not for one reason, but a mix of many. The numbers show just how dangerous migration can be. Nearly 9,000 people die or go missing every year while migrating around the world. The Central Mediterranean crossing is among the deadliest routes: more than 29,000 people have been reported dead or missing at sea since 2014 . Many of the world's most dangerous migration routes cut through remote or hostile terrain, exposing people to extreme weather, a lack of resources, dangerous wildlife, and violence, including assault, sexual abuse, trafficking, and extortion. Along the way, even a small injury or setback can turn into something life-threatening, and where someone is in their journey changes what kind of danger they face: When on the move , people face a higher risk of dehydration, hypothermia, malnutrition, or exhaustion. In camps or shelters , they may face overcrowding and limited sanitation. In destination countries , they may face unsafe working conditions and psychological stress linked to exclusion or uncertainty. Women and girls face extra risks tied to gender-based violence, exploitation, and discrimination — one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, and the risk is even higher for migrant women. Many face serious harm: sequestration, forced labour, kidnapping, and sexual violence, especially on irregular routes or when relying on unregulated intermediaries. First aid can bridge the gap People on the move face real barriers to getting help : language, cultural misunderstanding, gender dynamics, strong family structures, fear of authorities, and difficult ethical situations within healthcare systems. Even when support exists, they don't always ask for it : a lack of information, money worries, fear tied to an irregular immigration status, or those same language and cultural barriers can get in the way. First aid in migration contexts means understanding all of this. This is why Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) matter so much. Run by Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies, these are safe, neutral, and conveniently located spaces, more than 600 of them around the world, where people on the move can get essential services and reliable support, no matter their status, cutting through many of those barriers in the process. They offer both assistance and protection, in long-term programmes and emergencies alike. For people who cross the Central Mediterranean, some of those HSPs are waiting for them right on the coastlines of Spain, Italy, and Greece, among many other countries, offering health care, safe shelter, food, and help reconnecting families. Mental health is a core part of that support. Recognising distress, listening actively, and referring people to specialised care matters just as much as treating a physical injury — and it's often at HSPs that this kind of care first becomes possible. Across all of its migration activities, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement reached 17.9 million people worldwide in 2024 , treating minor injuries and illnesses, providing psychological first aid, and connecting survivors of gender-based violence with health services and support. Some National Societies also offer first aid training built for people on the move, adapted to different ages, languages, and situations. Hearing from the people who help From the Dominican Republic to Sudan to Turkey, this work takes many forms. Here's how three volunteers and staff members describe it. Luis Paul Acevedo Rodriguez , Red Cross of the Dominican Republic: "First aid in migration contexts prioritises emotional stability and crisis mitigation, focusing on both psychological first aid and physical injuries. We follow the three core action principles of psychological first aid: ‘look, listen and link’ with migrants, serving everyone equally regardless of their origin, culture, belief, or destination. Many arrive dehydrated, injured, stressed, and exhausted — and because we treat them with respect and dignity, it's that same dignity that keeps our volunteers motivated to keep doing this work." Luis Paul Acevedo Rodriguez In Sudan, that same commitment looks like a single first aid point, open every day. Bushra Mohammed Mustafa Al-Imam , Sudanese Red Crescent volunteer: "For the displaced people who arrive at Khor Taqat Displacement Centre, our first aid point is often the first place they turn to. We treat wounds, provide care, and refer anyone who needs more advanced treatment." Bushra Mohammed Mustafa Al-Imam In Turkey, the work starts even earlier, well before anyone needs a first aid point at all. Beyzan Nur Zengin , First Aid Specialist, Turkish Red Crescent: "Since 2015, the Turkish Red Crescent has provided a wide range of services and assistance to migrants, organising first aid awareness sessions and training in refugee camps, community centres, and schools for migrant children. To help people overcome language barriers, we've prepared first aid guides in different languages and developed first aid kits based on their needs. No matter who you are or where you are, first aid is for everyone, everywhere."

ReliefWebReliefWeb•International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies11 Sept
R

World: Closing health workforce gaps for emergency response: the Western Pacific steps up

Country: World Source: World Health Organization Over 100 health emergency experts from 56 institutions across 21 countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Region who are part of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) concluded their annual regional partners’ meeting with a commitment to bridge gaps in emergency workforce capacities and advance regional emergency readiness and resilience. Co-hosted by WHO and the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency in the Republic of Korea, the two-day event aimed to strengthen the Region’s collective ability to detect, prepare for and respond to health emergencies. Partners mapped capacities and priority technical gaps across the Region — including cybersecurity and critical infrastructure resilience; water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and environmental health; biological emergencies, nuclear emergencies, and nuclear and radiological security. The result: a renewed commitment to close these gaps by working together through shared expertise and coordinated action. Advancing the Global Health Emergency Corps Reflective of regional solidarity and partnerships in action, GOARN – which is coordinated globally by WHO - enables a stronger, better-connected emergency health workforce that is ready to surge wherever and whenever requested by WHO Member States. This year alone, GOARN partners across the Western Pacific have supported nine experts on six missions - from measles outbreaks in Viet Nam to HIV outbreak response in Fiji - providing surge support in epidemiology, surveillance and clinical case management. “GOARN partners across the Western Pacific and globally have repeatedly demonstrated the power of what we can do collectively, when we join forces, share expertise and build on each other’s strengths,” noted Dr Gina Samaan, WHO Regional Emergency Director for the Western Pacific, in her opening remarks at the gathering. “Let us continue to forge long-term partnerships grounded in mutual respect that will protect the Region for generations to come. We are smarter, faster and infinitely stronger when we work together,” she added. Reiterating Dr Samaan's call, Dr Seung-kwan Lim, Commissioner of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, emphasized the value of GOARN: “The Republic of Korea is pleased to stand alongside our regional partners in building an emergency workforce that is ready and resilient. GOARN turns national expertise into regional readiness - catalysing national strengths into collective resilience.” GOARN advances the Global Health Security Action Framework (GHEC) initiative by “convening, connecting and capacitating” regional leaders and surge workforce – “the three Cs”. Years of GOARN leadership and outbreak response training programmes have cultivated a deep bench of fit-for-purpose, seasoned outbreak response experts and forged an alumni network of emergency leaders worldwide. The Western Pacific network alone has now grown to 94 partner institutions across 19 countries. Putting partnerships into practice During the Regional Partners’ Meeting, health experts identified and catalogued the technical expertise currently available across the Western Pacific Region, so that the right skills could be better matched quickly to needs wherever emergencies occur. Three priority areas emerged for further strengthening: Cybersecurity and critical infrastructure resilience - protecting essential systems, including healthcare networks, from digital disruptions. Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and environmental health - reflecting the ongoing nexus between climate change and health. Biological emergencies, nuclear emergencies, and nuclear and radiological security - requiring specialized technical capability that remains limited across many national response systems. Meeting participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening workforce capacities in the Region, with a particular focus on these three areas, and to working collectively to better prepare the Western Pacific for the next health emergency. “GOARN is truly turning preparedness into action - giving our Region the surge capacity it needs for fast, coordinated response when it matters most - and building more resilient health systems along the way,” said Dr Samaan. “As health emergencies mount in this age of permacrisis, emergency preparedness and response must be woven into the fabric of health. This is not an option, but an imperative as we seek to achieve health for all.” ____ About GOARN The Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN), coordinated by the World Health Organization since 2000, strengthens global health security by advancing preparedness for and response to public health emergencies. The network brings together more than 390 institutions, including national public health agencies, technical organizations and nongovernmental partners, to support coordinated international action during outbreaks and other health emergencies. There are 94 GOARN partners in the Western Pacific Region (as of August 2026), accounting for approximately 25% of global partners. For more information and media interviews, please contact: WHO Western Pacific Communications: wprocom@who.int Ara Johannes: johannesa@who.int

ReliefWebReliefWeb•World Health Organization11 Sept
R

World: Journée mondiale des premiers secours 2026 : En mouvement, mais pas seul

Country: World Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Chaque année, des personnes quittent leur foyer et entreprennent des voyages sans aucune garantie de sécurité, traversant des déserts et des mers, ou marchant pendant des jours à travers la jungle. Quelle que soit leur destination, les dangers peuvent les accompagner tout au long de leur parcours, et les premiers secours peuvent faire la différence entre la vie et la mort. C’est le thème de la Journée mondiale des premiers secours de cette année : « Les premiers secours dans les contextes migratoires » . Cette journée met en lumière les quelque 304 millions de personnes qui, à la mi-2024, vivaient en tant que migrants internationaux dans le monde , soit 3,7 % de la population mondiale. L’IFRC utilise volontairement une définition large du terme « migrants » afin de prendre en compte toute l’étendue des besoins humanitaires : toute personne en déplacement, quelles que soient les raisons qui l’ont poussée à quitter son foyer ou son statut juridique. Cela inclut les demandeurs d’asile, les réfugiés, les personnes déplacées par les conflits ou les catastrophes, les travailleurs sans papiers, ainsi que les personnes qui migrent volontairement pour d’autres raisons. À quel point le voyage est-il dangereux ? Les catastrophes, les crises sanitaires, la pauvreté, les inégalités, la marginalisation, la violence et les conflits poussent les personnes à se déplacer — généralement non pas pour une seule raison, mais sous l’effet d’une combinaison de plusieurs facteurs. Les chiffres montrent à quel point les parcours migratoires peuvent être dangereux. Chaque année, près de 9 000 personnes meurent ou sont portées disparues au cours de leur parcours migratoire à travers le monde. La traversée de la Méditerranée centrale figure parmi les routes les plus meurtrières : depuis 2014, plus de 29 000 personnes ont été signalées mortes ou portées disparues en mer. Bon nombre des routes migratoires les plus dangereuses au monde traversent des zones reculées ou hostiles, exposant les personnes à des conditions météorologiques extrêmes, au manque de ressources, à une faune dangereuse et à différentes formes de violence, notamment les agressions, les violences sexuelles, la traite des êtres humains et l’extorsion. Tout au long du parcours, même une blessure mineure ou un contretemps peut rapidement mettre une vie en danger. Les risques auxquels une personne est exposée varient également selon l’étape de son parcours : Pendant le déplacement , les personnes sont davantage exposées aux risques de déshydratation, d’hypothermie, de malnutrition ou d’épuisement. Dans les camps ou les abris , elles peuvent être confrontées à la surpopulation et à un accès limité à des installations sanitaires adéquates. Dans les pays de destination , elles peuvent être confrontées à des conditions de travail dangereuses ainsi qu’à un stress psychologique lié à l’exclusion ou à l’incertitude. Les femmes et les filles sont exposées à des risques supplémentaires liés aux violences basées sur le genre, à l’exploitation et à la discrimination. Dans le monde, une femme sur trois subit des violences physiques ou sexuelles au cours de sa vie, et ce risque est encore plus élevé pour les femmes migrantes. Nombre d’entre elles sont exposées à de graves violences, notamment la séquestration, le travail forcé, les enlèvements et les violences sexuelles, en particulier lorsqu’elles empruntent des routes migratoires irrégulières ou dépendent d’intermédiaires non réglementés. Les premiers secours peuvent combler le fossé Les personnes en déplacement se heurtent à de réels obstacles pour accéder à l’aide : barrières linguistiques, incompréhensions culturelles, dynamiques liées au genre, poids des structures familiales, crainte des autorités et situations éthiques complexes au sein des systèmes de santé. Même lorsque des services d’aide sont disponibles, les personnes en déplacement n’y ont pas toujours recours : le manque d’information, les difficultés financières, la crainte liée à un statut migratoire irrégulier, ou encore les barrières linguistiques et culturelles peuvent les en empêcher. Les premiers secours dans les contextes migratoires doivent tenir compte de toutes ces réalités. C’est pourquoi les Points de services humanitaires (PSH) jouent un rôle essentiel. Gérés par les Sociétés nationales de la Croix-Rouge et du Croissant-Rouge, ces espaces sûrs, neutres et facilement accessibles — plus de 600 dans le monde — permettent aux personnes en déplacement d’accéder à des services essentiels et à un soutien fiable, quel que soit leur statut, contribuant ainsi à lever bon nombre de ces obstacles. Ils offrent à la fois assistance et protection, aussi bien dans le cadre de programmes à long terme que lors de situations d’urgence. Pour les personnes qui traversent la Méditerranée centrale, certains de ces Points de services humanitaires sont notamment présents sur les côtes de l’Espagne, de l’Italie et de la Grèce, ainsi que dans de nombreux autres pays. Ils proposent des soins de santé, un hébergement sûr, de la nourriture et une aide pour rétablir les liens familiaux. La santé mentale constitue une composante essentielle de cet accompagnement. Savoir reconnaître les signes de détresse, pratiquer une écoute active et orienter les personnes vers des soins spécialisés est tout aussi important que de traiter une blessure physique — et c’est souvent au sein des Points de services humanitaires que ce type de prise en charge devient possible pour la première fois. Dans l’ensemble de ses activités liées à la migration, le Mouvement international de la Croix-Rouge et du Croissant-Rouge a apporté son soutien à 17,9 millions de personnes dans le monde en 2024 , notamment en prenant en charge des blessures et des maladies bénignes, en fournissant des premiers secours psychologiques et en orientant les personnes survivantes de violences basées sur le genre vers des services de santé et de soutien adaptés. Certaines Sociétés nationales proposent également des formations aux premiers secours spécialement conçues pour les personnes en déplacement et adaptées aux différents âges, langues et contextes. Témoignages de celles et ceux qui viennent en aide De la République dominicaine au Soudan, en passant par la Türkiye, cette action prend de nombreuses formes. Voici comment trois volontaires et membres du personnel décrivent leur travail. Luis Paul Acevedo Rodriguez, Croix-Rouge dominicaine : « Dans les contextes migratoires, les premiers secours accordent la priorité à la stabilité émotionnelle et à l’atténuation des situations de crise, en mettant l’accent à la fois sur les premiers secours psychologiques et sur la prise en charge des blessures physiques. Nous suivons les trois principes d’action fondamentaux des premiers secours psychologiques : “regarder, écouter et orienter”, et nous apportons notre aide à toutes les personnes migrantes de manière égale, quels que soient leur origine, leur culture, leurs croyances ou leur destination. Beaucoup arrivent déshydratées, blessées, stressées et épuisées. Nous les accueillons avec respect et dignité, et c’est précisément cette dignité qui motive nos volontaires à poursuivre leur engagement.» Luis Paul Acevedo Rodriguez Au Soudan, ce même engagement se traduit par un point de premiers secours ouvert tous les jours. Bushra Mohammed Mustafa Al-Imam, volontaire du Croissant-Rouge soudanais : « Pour les personnes déplacées qui arrivent au centre de déplacement de Khor Taqat, notre point de premiers secours est souvent le premier endroit vers lequel elles se tournent. Nous soignons les blessures, prodiguons les premiers soins et orientons vers des structures adaptées toute personne ayant besoin d’une prise en charge médicale plus avancée. » Bushra Mohammed Mustafa Al-Imam En Türkiye, l’action commence encore plus tôt, bien avant qu’une personne n’ait besoin de se rendre dans un point de premiers secours. Beyzan Nur Zengin, spécialiste des premiers secours au Croissant-Rouge turc : « Depuis 2015, le Croissant-Rouge turc fournit un large éventail de services et d’assistance aux personnes migrantes, notamment en organisant des séances de sensibilisation et des formations aux premiers secours dans les camps de réfugiés, les centres communautaires et les écoles accueillant des enfants migrants. Afin d’aider les personnes à surmonter les barrières linguistiques, nous avons élaboré des guides de premiers secours dans différentes langues et développé des trousses de premiers secours adaptées à leurs besoins. Qui que vous soyez et où que vous soyez, les premiers secours sont pour tout le monde, partout. »

ReliefWebReliefWeb•International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies11 Sept

Philippines: DSWD DROMIC Report #80 on the Combined Effects of Enhanced Southwest Monsoon and Tropical Cyclones “Luis”, “Maymay”, “Neneng”, and “Pilandok” as of 11 September 2026, 6AM

Country: Philippines Source: Government of the Philippines Please refer to the attached file. I. Situation Overview On 30 July 2026 at 4:00 PM, the trough of a Low Pressure Area (LPA 07f) affected the eastern sections of Visayas and Mindanao. On the same day, the trough of the LPA brought continuous heavy rainfall, resulting in flash floods in Zamboanga City. On 01 August 2026, the LPA located east of Infanta, Quezon developed into Tropical Depression (TD) Luis. On 02 August 2026, TD Luis brought moderate to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough sea conditions across Northern and Central Luzon, resulting in flooding in low-lying and flood-prone areas, particularly in the Cagayan Valley Region. Continuous moderate to heavy rainfall was also experienced in parts of La Union and Pangasinan. The effects of TD Luis also extended to the Bicol Region, where a Yellow Rainfall Warning was raised over Camarines Norte due to the risk of flooding in low-lying areas and communities near river channels. Moderate to heavy rainfall also affected parts of Masbate, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon. Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suspended sea travel for all types of vessels in the Province of Catanduanes and the eastern portion of Camarines Norte due to hazardous sea conditions. On 03 August 2026, TD Luis brought rains accompanied by gusty winds over the Province of Aurora, while the rest of Central Luzon experienced cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms associated with the tropical cyclone (TC). At 11:00 PM on the same day, TD Luis weakened into a LPA while in the vicinity of Peñablanca, Cagayan. On 04 August 2026, the LPA west of La Union developed into TD “Maymay”. The TD remained over the sea west of La Union, intensified into a Tropical Storm (TS), and gradually moved northward and east-northeastward toward the Ilocos area on the following day. On 06 August 2026, “Maymay” made landfall near Magsingal, Ilocos Sur, traversed Northern Luzon and then moved over the Philippine Sea while weakening into a TD. By 07 August 2026, “Maymay” had weakened into an LPA over the Philippine Sea. On 08 August 2026, the effects of the Southwest Monsoon (SWM) continued to affect the country, bringing heavy rains, flooding, and strong winds in several areas. In Western Visayas, flooding and strong winds were reported in Antique, Aklan, and Iloilo City, while sea trips were cancelled, leaving passengers stranded in several ports. A tornado also struck parts of Iloilo City, damaging roofs, power lines, and trees. Flooding was likewise reported in several areas in the National Capital Region (NCR). On 18 August 2026, the LPA located 1,025 km East of Extreme Northern Luzon (20.4°N, 131.8°E) developed into TD “Neneng”. On 19 August 2026, TD “Neneng” slightly intensified as it moved northwestward over the sea east of Batanes. On 20 August 2026, TD “Neneng” weakened into a LPA and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). On 28 August 2026, an LPA was estimated based on all available data at 720 km East of Itbayat, Batanes. On 30 August 2026, the LPA located 1,225 km East of Extreme Northern Luzon developed into TD “Pilandok”. On 01 September 2026, 8:00 AM, Tropical Depression "PILANDOK" intensified into a Tropical Storm with the international name "KROVANH" . On 03 September 2026, 4:30 AM. Tropical Storm "PILANDOK" exited PAR. In response, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Field Offices (FOs) Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), I, II, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, VIII, IX, and NCR, is in close coordination with the affected Local Government Units (LGUs), to monitor the situation and ensure the provision of necessary assistance to the affected population. Meanwhile, the DSWD FOs NCR, CAR, I, II, III, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, V, VI, VIII and IX have already provided relief assistance to address the immediate needs of the affected families and individuals. Additionally, the DSWD ensures the protection of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) through Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) and dedicated IDP Protection mechanisms, while continuously working with affected LGUs to support response and recovery efforts.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Government of the Philippines11 Sept

Nepal floods damage 1,800 hectares of crops and kill thousands of livestock

Country: Nepal Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations In this interview, Beth Bechdol, FAO Deputy Director-General, outlines the impact of the floods on rural communities and the urgent path towards agricultural recovery 10/09/2026 Rome – The devastating flash floods that swept through Nepal’s Bhote Koshi–Trishuli river corridor on 26 August 2026 have taken a heavy toll on communities, killing over 1000 people, forcing many to flee their homes and causing extensive damage to agriculture and rural livelihoods. Preliminary assessments indicate that around 1,800 hectares of crops—mostly paddy—were damaged, while thousands of livestock were killed. Farmland, fisheries, food stocks and agricultural infrastructure were also affected, threatening the food security and incomes of farming families well beyond the immediate emergency. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is supporting the Government of Nepal’s response, including through emergency veterinary support and assessments of damage to agriculture and rural livelihoods. In this interview, FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol discusses the impact of the floods on farmers and livestock producers, the most urgent agricultural needs and why restoring production ahead of the next planting season will be critical to recovery. Q1. What has been the impact of the floods on people’s livelihoods? BB: First of all, the human toll of the recent floods has been devastating. More than 1,000 people have lost their lives, thousands more remain unaccounted for, and entire communities have been affected. But this disaster has also washed away the means by which many families feed themselves and earn an income. Crops have been buried under mud and sediment. Fishponds have been swept away, and roads, bridges and markets have been damaged, disrupting the movement of food, animal feed, milk and other agricultural inputs. FAO’s preliminary assessment indicates that around 1,800 hectares of crops have been damaged, mostly paddy fields, with production losses approaching 7,700 tonnes. For farming families, these losses are about much more than the current harvest. Losing a crop can mean losing next season’s production and next month’s income. Q2. How have the floods affected livestock and poultry? BB: This is also an important livestock-producing area. Across 11 affected municipalities, there were more than 350,000 head of cattle, buffalo, sheep and goats, as well as 1.6 million poultry. Thousands of animals have now been reported lost, and we estimate that 5 to 10 percent of the livestock and poultry population in these communities may have been completely lost. For a farming family, losing an animal is not only about losing food today. It can also mean losing an important source of income and future production. That is why agricultural recovery needs to be considered as part of the response, and it has to begin early. Q3. What are the most urgent needs for farmers and livestock producers? BB: Farmers will need seeds, while livestock will need feed and veterinary care. There is also an increased risk of animal disease following flooding like this. So vaccination, treatment and disease surveillance will also be important. At the same time, we are working with the Government to understand the full extent of the damage to crops, livestock, fisheries, farmland and agricultural infrastructure. We are using field assessments, as well as satellite and remote-sensing technology. We need to know not only where the flood went, but what it took with it—and what farmers need to produce again. Q4: Why is the next planting season so important? BB: There are really two clocks running at the same time. The first is the immediate emergency: providing safe water, food, shelter and sanitation, and reaching communities that have been cut off from one another. Forty-one bridges have reportedly been destroyed, and damaged roads continue to impede access and constrain the delivery of humanitarian services. But the second clock is agriculture. Planting season does not wait for a recovery plan. We also have a significant challenge with the land itself. Our satellite imagery shows cropland buried under mud and sediment, along with erosion and major sediment build-up. This will mean bigger challenges for long-term agricultural recovery. Recovery is not simply about replacing seeds. We need to determine which fields can be brought back into production, restore soils where needed, repair drainage and irrigation systems, and help farmers prepare for the next crop. If farmers miss the next planting season, the impact of this flood will last far longer. Q5: What is FAO doing to support agricultural recovery in Nepal? BB: Within about 24 hours, FAO had deployed emergency teams, including veterinarians, to affected areas. We provided veterinary medicines to treat injured animals, and we are doing our best to assess the risks of animal disease and the urgent need for feed. At the same time, FAO is leading the agricultural loss-and-damage assessment requested by the Government, so that it can build an informed and targeted recovery plan. These immediate actions feed directly into FAO’s longer-term recovery work. FAO brings something very specific and very important to the response: we work on the front end to rapidly boost food production as part of the emergency response and simultaneously focus on opportunities for agricultural recovery. That could mean restoring damaged irrigation systems or getting seeds and tools to a family before the planting window closes. It could mean providing feed and veterinary services so that a surviving animal stays alive and productive. Or it might mean helping restore fisheries and local markets. For us, the goal is not simply to replace or fix what was lost. It is to restore the ability of families to produce food and earn an income. When a farmer can produce again, a family begins to recover—and a community becomes less dependent on emergency assistance. Contact Irina Utkina FAO(+39) 06 570 52542 irina.utkina@fao.org FAO News and Media (+39) 06 570 53625 FAO-Newsroom@fao.org

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations11 Sept

Somalia Food Security Outlook Update August 2026 - January 2027: Risk of Famine (IPC Phase 5) persists despite better-than-anticipated xagaa rains

Country: Somalia Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages FEWS NET still assesses a credible risk of Famine (IPC Phase 5) in southern Somalia from October through January 2027. Under the most likely scenario, Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes, with populations in Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5), are expected through January 2027 in the Bay Bakool Low Potential Agropastoral and Sorghum High Potential Agropastoral livelihood zones; riverine livelihood zones (except Lower Shabelle); the Southern Agropastoral Livelihood Zone (Hiiraan); and multiple IDP settlements. However, if extreme, widespread flooding materializes, extensive agricultural losses and prolonged isolation of communities from markets and lifesaving services would likely lead to Famine (IPC Phase 5). Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes, with populations in Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5), are likely to persist in highly cropping-dependent areas and emerge in riverine areas from October, as anticipated flooding negatively affects agricultural activities. Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes are also expected in other agropastoral areas with higher livestock holdings. Additionally, FEWS NET is now projecting Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes through September in the Sorghum High Potential Livelihood Zone of Bay and Gedo regions due to better-than-expected xagaa rains and harvests. However, such improvements will be short-lived, and deterioration to Emergency (IPC Phase 4) is expected from October. Widespread Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes are expected to persist in northern and central pastoral areas, with some households likely facing Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5). High food prices, low livestock holdings, and limited milk availability will constrain food access, despite expected improvements in water and pasture availability during the upcoming deyr rains. From October to January, FEWS NET now projects Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes will emerge in the Northern Inland Pastoral Livelihood Zone of Sanaag and Sool regions based on new information indicating relatively higher conception rates and milk production prospects than previously anticipated. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) remain among the most food-insecure populations in Somalia. Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes, with populations in Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5), are expected in many major IDP settlements. Repeated displacements, high food prices, and heightened competition for increasingly limited income-earning opportunities will severely constrain food access.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept

Nepal Food Security Outlook Update: Stressed ! (IPC Phase 2 !) likely in Rasuwa district, following historic flooding, August 2026 - January 2027

Country: Nepal Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages In the worst flood-affected areas of Rasuwa District, outcomes aligned with Stressed! (IPC Phase 2!) are expected through at least January 2027, supported by food assistance. Some households not receiving assistance are likely to face outcomes aligned with Crisis (IPC Phase 3). The August 26 flash flood and debris flow destroyed homes, food stocks, livestock, cropland, markets, and infrastructure, leaving many households dependent on assistance. Recovery is expected to be slow due to continued physical access constraints, damaged infrastructure, and limited income-earning opportunities. In Rasuwa District, prolonged disruption to livelihood activities, trade, and tourism is expected to constrain income and therefore food access through at least January 2027. The flood severely damaged the main highway, hydropower infrastructure, and key infrastructure supporting trade links with China. Households typically rely on income from tourism, transport, trade, customs and hydropower activities, which are expected to remain limited. Across most of Nepal, outcomes aligned with Minimal (IPC Phase 1) and Stressed (IPC Phase 2) are expected through January 2027. In late September/October acute food insecurity is expected to improve with Minimal (IPC Phase 1) becoming more widespread. Rice planting exceeded last year despite below-average June to September monsoon rains across much of the country. Food access is expected to improve with the arrival of maize and rice harvests. However, localized flood and landslide damage, and staple food prices that remain above the five-year average, are expected to constrain food access for some poor households. Some poor households in the northwestern mountain areas of Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces are expected to face outcomes aligned with Crisis (IPC Phase 3). Reduced income from yarshagumba sales, declining seasonal labor opportunities, and the lingering impacts of previous floods and earthquakes are expected to limit household purchasing power. Meeting their food needs will be most difficult for households displaced by recent landslides and those with limited productive assets.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept

Syria Food Security Outlook Update: Economic constraints and rising winter costs sustain Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes, August 2026 - January 2027

Country: Syrian Arab Republic Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages Through January 2027, NES is expected to remain in Crisis (IPC Phase 3), as weak labor demand and delayed wheat payments constrain household income while heating, education, and planting costs rise during the winter. Camp-based internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees with few productive assets face greater difficulty compensating for income shortfalls through own production or asset sales. Among the poorest of these households, increasing debt and severe livelihood coping — including child labor and child marriage — likely indicate an inability to meet food needs without severely undermining future livelihoods, consistent with Emergency (IPC Phase 4). NWS is expected to remain in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) through January 2027, as low wages and below-average olive and pistachio harvests constrain household income and food access heading into winter. Displaced and returnee households with limited land and few productive assets depend heavily on market purchases but have fewer income sources to offset rising seasonal expenses. Among a subset of poorest households, increasing borrowing is expected to drive Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes. Latakia is expected to deteriorate to Crisis (IPC Phase 3) from October as seasonal income from tourism and fishing withdraws, while Tartus is expected to remain Stressed (IPC Phase 2) through January 2027. The olive and citrus harvest will offer only partial relief, as wildfire damage and rising costs compress earnings just as winter expenses converge. Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes are expected to persist across Daraa, Quneitra, and As-Suwayda through January 2027, with a small number of poor households — particularly returnees, IDPs, and border-zone communities — likely to reach Crisis (IPC Phase 3) as the lean season begins. Water scarcity is likely to constrain income and drive up expenses, as near-empty reservoirs push trucked-water costs to 50–80 percent of a daily wage, compounded by Israeli operations and herbicide damage restricting farmland and grazing access. Already-narrow household margins nationwide are expected to erode further from October, deepening food access constraints as a nominally stable exchange rate continues to mask real purchasing-power losses, diesel and fertilizer prices remain elevated, and continued unexploded ordinance (UXO) contamination in former frontline areas restricts safe farmland access, with these pressures converging with heating and planting costs as the lean season begins in January.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept

Sudan Food Security Outlook Update: Conflict and poor rains to drive Emergency and risk of Famine during harvest, August 2026 - January 2027

Country: Sudan Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages Emergency (IPC Phase 4) will remain widespread through the peak of the lean season (August-September) across much of Greater Darfur, Greater Kordofan, and Blue Nile driven by conflict, deteriorating economic conditions, rising food and fuel prices, and severe erosion of purchasing capacity. Some populations will face Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) outcomes in Um Baru, Kernoi, and At-Tiné of North Darfur; Dilling, Kadugli of South Kordofan and surrounding rural areas; El-Obeid and surrounding areas of North Kordofan; and among some internally displaced populations (IDPs) in Greater Darfur and Greater Kordofan. Humanitarian food assistance in consistently accessible parts of North Darfur (Tawila camp, Al Lait, At Taweisha), South Darfur (As Sunta, Buram), Central Darfur (Jebal Marrahs), and South Kordofan (Um Durein, Delami) is preventing worse outcomes; however, less than 20 percent of FEWS NET’s estimated population in need is receiving food assistance. Emergency (IPC Phase 4) outcomes, with some populations in Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5), will persist during the harvest (October-January) along active front lines given the scale of conflict disruptions to agricultural engagement, compounded by El Niño-driven severely below-average rainfall and high temperatures. In these areas, harvests are expected to be marginal at best. In other areas of western Sudan, insecurity and below-average rainfall is expected to lead to poor harvests and sustain persistently high prices, driving widespread Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes during the typical harvest period (October – January). In calmer eastern areas, access to harvests, though below-average, and income from agricultural labor will ease consumption gaps, supporting Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes. There is a credible risk of Famine (IPC Phase 5) through January in seven areas of northwestern and central North Darfur, and in Dilling and Kadugli of South Kordofan and nearby rural areas. Large to extreme food consumption deficits are already widespread alongside high acute malnutrition. If conflict escalates or severe sieges resume and isolate populations for a prolonged time in combination with marginal-to-no harvests, worsening food consumption deficits and hunger-related mortality alongside already extreme acute malnutrition, then Famine (IPC Phase 5) would likely occur.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept

Lesotho: Food Security Outlook Update - Despite the below-average 2026 harvest, consistent imports support food access, August 2026 - January 2027

Country: Lesotho Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes are expected to persist across the Southern Lowlands, Senqu River Valley, and Mountain regions through January 2027 , with some poor households in Crisis (IPC Phase 3). The 2026 harvest is expected to be below average due to waterlogging in April and May which reduced harvest levels and delayed the completion of the harvest by one month, concluding in August, in the Southern Lowlands and the Senqu River Valley. Food stocks are anticipated to begin to deplete atypically early, by September. Households are expected to become increasingly reliant on markets for food, as purchasing power erodes starting in October, associated with declining income from labor, remittances, and local brew sales. In the Northern Lowlands and Foothills, Minimal (IPC Phase 1) outcomes are expected through January 2027 , supported by an average harvest and available agricultural and casual labor opportunities. Households are expected to have access to food stocks through November. As own-produced stocks seasonally deplete in December, households are expected to meet food needs through markets, aided by stable staple prices and normal levels of income. National maize production in 2026 is estimated to be well below both last year and the five-year average, following heavy rainfall in April and May resulting in waterlogging and damaged crops. This rainfall also delayed the harvest by one month, and it is now expected to be completed in August. Despite the below-average harvest, market shortages are not expected, supported by stable imports from South Africa and favorable maize prices. El Niño conditions are expected to drive a late and below-average start to the October 2026 to April 2027 rainy season , delaying land preparation and planting, constraining early crop establishment, and reducing agricultural labor opportunities for poor households. Area planted for key staple crops, from October through December, is expected to be below average due to the anticipated below-average start of season.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept

Afghanistan Food Security Outlook Update, August 2026 - January 2027: Crisis (IPC Phase 3) persists despite an anticipated favorable start to the season

Countries: Afghanistan, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Pakistan Source: Famine Early Warning System Network Please refer to the attached file. Key Messages Crisis (IPC Phase 3) outcomes are expected through January 2027 across parts of the central highlands, east, northeast, and southwest, and urban areas, with additional provinces deteriorating to Crisis (IPC Phase 3) starting in October. Despite the favorable 2026 harvest, poor households in these areas entered the season with eroded assets following consecutive years of drought and below-average production, and remote, deficit-producing areas face additional constraints from limited production, such as fewer typical labor opportunities, and high transportation costs that are sustaining elevated food prices. Agricultural labor during the winter wheat planting season will provide only a marginal increase in income, as planting is less labor intensive than other crops and is typically handled by landowners themselves, limiting demand for hired labor. As households deplete own-produced stocks in September and casual labor income declines from October, poor households are expected to face food consumption gaps and engage in negative coping strategies, including selling productive assets and taking on debt. Stressed (IPC Phase 2) outcomes are expected across the rest of the country through the projection period . Through September, own-produced food and harvest-related labor, alongside seasonal income from livestock, construction, and petty trade, will allow most households to meet minimum food needs. As harvest stocks deplete and labor opportunities decline from October, market dependence is expected to increase, with poor households relying on coping strategies such as borrowing to maintain food consumption through the winter lean season. The ongoing El Niño event is expected to drive above-average precipitation countrywide between October 2026 and January 2027 the start of the October 2026 to May 2027 wet season. This is expected to enable above average and timely winter wheat planting following four consecutive years of drought between 2021 and 2024. Above-average precipitation is also expected to improve snowpack and snow water volumes countrywide, contingent on temperatures remaining average to below average during the precipitation season.

ReliefWebReliefWeb•Famine Early Warning System Network11 Sept