The imminent famine catastrophe in south-east Africa
29.2.2016
Question for written answer P-001751-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Jytte Guteland (S&D)
The drought currently affecting several countries in south-east Africa is rapidly turning into a humanitarian catastrophe, right before our eyes.
According to the UN World Food Programme (WFP), millions of people are on the verge of famine after the longest and most severe drought in 35 years in the region. The drought has already severely reduced the production of crucial crops, and this will drive up prices and lead to widespread unemployment and severe food shortages. Urgent assistance is needed to ensure people will not starve to death.
Given the urgency of the situation and the possible long-term implications for the people and countries affected, can the Commission please answer the following questions:
- 1.What specific actions will the Commission/EEAS take to prevent the fast deterioration of the situation and to ensure sufficient support to help save lives in the affected countries?
- 2.How are these actions being coordinated by the Commission/EEAS with the rest of the international community and key actors (UN, AU and others) in order to make sure that urgent assistance reaches the people affected by the drought in time?