Highlights related to the impacts on Food and Nutrition Security in Yemen:

Yemen's food and nutrition security is severely impacted by multiple factors stemming from the ongoing conflict, economic decline, and structural challenges. Here are the key impacts:

Economic Decline and Poverty

The conflict has led to a dramatic 54% contraction in Yemen's real GDP per capita since 2015, plunging most of the population into poverty. Approximately half of the population, or 17.4 million people, face food insecurity. Economic fragmentation and a Houthi-imposed blockade on oil exports have further strained the economy, reducing fiscal space and hindering growth.

Malnutrition and Health Crisis

Malnutrition rates in Yemen are among the highest globally. Approximately 2.7 million children are acutely malnourished, with nearly 600,000 suffering from severe acute malnutrition. The health system is on the brink of collapse, unable to cope with the high demand for medical services due to the ongoing conflict and economic hardship.

Human Capital Depletion

The conflict has severely impacted human capital in Yemen. Youth mortality rates have increased, life expectancy has declined, and educational attainment is low. A child who starts school at age four can expect to complete only 4.2 learning-adjusted years by age 18, placing Yemen among the lowest in the world. This depletion of human capital will have long-term negative effects on the country's recovery and development.

Structural Challenges

Yemen's economy is heavily dependent on external aid, remittances, and the oil sector. The conflict has exacerbated structural issues, including double taxation, widespread corruption, and market distortions. The country's agricultural sector, vital for food security, is also affected by climate change and conflict-related disruptions.

Humanitarian Impact and Aid

Humanitarian aid is crucial for Yemen, yet it faces significant challenges. Funding gaps and operational constraints hinder the delivery of essential services. In 2023, the UN's aid appeal was only 40.7% funded, the lowest in years. The suspension of aid and food distribution by the World Food Programme in Houthi-controlled areas has further worsened the situation.

Economic Fragmentation

The conflict has intensified Yemen's fragmentation into two distinct economic zones, each with its own institutions and monetary authorities. This division exacerbates economic disparities and complicates efforts to deliver humanitarian aid and services effectively.

Outlook

Despite these severe challenges, there is hope for recovery if a sustained peace agreement is achieved. This could facilitate economic rebound, reconstruction, and post-conflict reforms, significantly improving food and nutrition security. However, the realization of this potential heavily depends on achieving lasting peace and political stability​.

Disclaimer: This summary has been generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model developed by OpenAI. For comprehensive information and context, please refer to the full document.