"Mass Starvation is Completely Avoidable"

Barry Coates, executive director of Oxfam New Zealand | May 8, 2008

Even without the food crisis, hundreds of millions do not have enough food. ++ We should demonstrate utmost concern and use this crisis as an opportunity to bring long overdue reforms and help vulnerable populations overcome long-existing food shortages. ++ Guaranteeing global food security requires solving structural problems, ending unfair trade practices, and tackling climate change without resorting to biofuels. ++ Finally, we should prioritize the sustainable option of financing local markets and production over direct supply of food aid.