Today’s Solutions: November 21, 2024

Some of the most influential humans in the world have won the Nobel Peace Prize including Malala Yousafzai, Barack Obama, and Nelson Mandela. This year, the prize goes to a much broader world actor: The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

The pandemic has exacerbated food insecurity around the globe, so this year the Nobel Peace Prize goes to not a politician or activist, but an organization fighting every day to keep some of the world’s most vulnerable people fed. 

The organization was created in 1961 and provided food for 100 million people in 88 countries last year alone. Right now, the organization is operating a large-scale aid project in Yemen where local conflict has fueled a widespread famine. 

The prize money, 10 million Swedish krona ($1.1 million), will allow the organization to continue to draw attention to families suffering from food insecurity and provide vital resources to those in need. Hunger and conflict are two closely correlated factors. Food insecurity is common in regions of conflict and in turn, events like famines can drive civil unrest, so the WFP certainly plays an important role in world peace. 

In an interview with BBC, WFP head David Beasley said, “To receive this award is a recognition to the men and women at the World Food Programme who put their lives on the line every day for the struggling, suffering people around the world. So I hope this is a signal and a message that the World Food Programme is a role model and that we all have got to do more.”

Solutions News Source Print this article
More of Today's Solutions

Colombia outlaws child marriage in landmark move

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Colombia made a historic move to protect its youngest citizens by prohibiting child marriage. After nearly two decades ...

Read More

5 pre-holiday decluttering tips for a stress-free season

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The holidays have arrived, bringing with them guests, gifts, and bright decorations. But, before you drape your home ...

Read More

You and your roommates make up your house’s microbiome

Here at The Optimist Daily we commonly write articles about the gut microbiome, its importance to our health, and how we can keep it ...

Read More

How to have an affordable Thanksgiving— even while turkey prices soar

It’s true— turkey prices are on the rise this year. Unlike last year's holiday season, when supply chain and labor issues created ingredient shortages, ...

Read More