Global Food Crisis Looms Amid Energy Shock, Ireland Urged to Act During EU Presidency

A global food shock is emerging, coinciding with the ongoing energy crisis from the US-Israeli war on Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Europe is already experiencing supply chain disruptions and elevated prices, with nitrogen-based fertilizer prices 70 percent above their 2024 average. EU officials warn this could impact the food chain by year-end as farmers deplete pre-war fertilizer stocks.

Fertilizer costs are increasing pressure on food producers and consumers amidst tight public finances and inflation risks. Some northern European countries, part of their “total defence” strategy after joining NATO, maintain agricultural emergency reserves. Other nations are now considering similar measures.

The developing world faces a more severe human toll from this food shock than from higher energy costs. A year of extreme heat due to climate change, exacerbated by El Niño, could intensify the crisis during Ireland’s upcoming EU presidency. The Global Network Against Food Crisis reported 266 million people experienced acute food and nutrition insecurity in 2025, the sixth consecutive annual increase, with 2026 projected to worsen.

Ireland’s EU presidency program should prioritize enhancing food security and securing an enhanced strategic partnership between the EU and Africa. This requires an emergency geopolitical response, especially given weakened UN multilateralism and aid cutbacks in OECD countries. Ireland should commit to improving food and nutrition security and build a coalition for timely response.