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When do famines begin and end? Clarifying the temporal dimensions of severe hunger crises

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  • Howe, Paul

Abstract

In the last 15 years, the world has experienced a resurgence in the risk of famine. Yet ambiguity over the temporal dimensions of these crises has led to confusion about whether and when they are occurring with significant implications for humanitarian response. This article attempts to provide greater clarity on these dimensions by distinguishing between four overlapping, but conceptually distinct temporal frames: famine risk, famine process, famine, and famine legacy. Applying the frames to a range of historical and contemporary crises, it suggests that they help to resolve some of the key ambiguities related to the temporal dimensions of famines by offering a more complete, flexible, and precise vocabulary to describe them. Although there are limitations and challenges associated with this approach, it is hoped that it will contribute to strengthening technical and political prevention efforts and permit a more adequate representation of the human experience of these crises.

Suggested Citation

  • Howe, Paul, 2026. "When do famines begin and end? Clarifying the temporal dimensions of severe hunger crises," World Development Perspectives, Elsevier, vol. 41(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wodepe:v:41:y:2026:i:c:s2452292926000044
    DOI: 10.1016/j.wdp.2026.100761
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