The Intelligence from The Economist The diet is cast: a coming food catastrophe
Jun 1, 2022
In this insightful discussion, guests Mathieu Favas, a finance correspondent, Natasha Loder, a health policy editor, and cultural writer Tom Vatter dive into pressing global issues. They explore the looming food catastrophe tied to the Ukraine conflict, revealing alarming statistics on food insecurity. The conversation then shifts to the ethical dilemmas surrounding whole-genome screening in newborns, weighing medical advancements against moral considerations. Lastly, Vatter chronicles the fascinating evolution of Bangkok's Patpong district, from financial hub to cultural landmark.
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Food Crisis Drivers
- Russia's war and blockades in Ukraine are the biggest factors driving the current food crisis.
- However, pre-existing issues like the pandemic, climate change, and energy prices also play a significant role.
Global Impacts
- Individuals in Yemen, Zimbabwe, and Tunisia report struggling to afford food, skipping meals, and facing business closures due to rising wheat and flour costs.
- These anecdotes highlight the real-world impacts of the crisis on people's lives.
Ukraine's Role
- Ukraine's reliance on its blockaded ports for grain export creates far-reaching consequences for the global food supply.
- Russia and Ukraine play a vital role in global food systems, making the blockade's impact severe.