Economist Podcasts The diet is cast: a coming food catastrophe
Jun 1, 2022
Matyau Favas, Finance correspondent for The Economist, sheds light on the looming global food crisis fueled by the war in Ukraine, leading to skyrocketing prices and mounting hunger. Tom Vatter, Culture writer for The Economist, takes us through the intriguing history of Bangkok's Patpong red-light district, now a cultural landmark. They discuss the ethical implications of advancing genetic screening for newborns, exploring medical possibilities while addressing privacy and ethical concerns. A captivating blend of urgent global issues and cultural reflections!
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Food Crisis Causes
- Russia's war and blockades in Ukraine are the largest factors squeezing the global food system.
- This is causing dramatic food price increases and a looming hunger catastrophe.
Global Impact of Food Crisis
- People in Yemen, Zimbabwe, and Tunisia are struggling to afford or even find basic food staples.
- A tailor in Yemen describes the wheat price increase as "crazy."
Russia and Ukraine's Role in Food Supply
- Russia and Ukraine are crucial to the global food system, exporting a significant portion of the world's grain and sunflower seeds.
- Sanctions on Russia and blockades on Ukraine have severely disrupted this supply, driving up global food prices.