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Democratic People’s Republic of Korea: Humanitarian Overview - March 2013

Countries
DPRK
Sources
UNCT DPRK
Publication date
Origin
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Situation Overview

  • Despite slight improvements in the humanitarian situation over the last year, assistance continues to be vital in safeguarding the health, hygiene, nutrition and food security status of millions of people in DPRK.

  • The health care system is unable to meet basic needs, due to inadequate supplies (such as vaccines and essential medicines) and equipment which directly impacts child and maternal mortality. Water and heating systems are in need of repair. Resources are also needed to ensure safe and child friendly learning spaces where educational institutions have deteriorated.

  • Around 2.8 million people in the most food insecure provinces remain in need of regular food assistance. The cereal deficit for the marketing year 2012/13 is estimated at 507,000 MT. Despite this being the narrowest food gap in many years, around 16 million people remain chronically food insecure and highly vulnerable to production shocks. (CFSAM 2012)

  • Malnutrition rates continue to be of great concern, with a chronic malnutrition (stunting) rate among children under five at 27.9%; and 4% acutely malnourished (wasting). (National Nutrition Survey 2012)