Report: 2023 Sees Most Armed Conflicts Since End of World War II

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Jun 11, 2024

Above: Aid for refugees at a WFP food distribution point on April 22, 2024 in Adre, Chad. Image copyright: Dan Kitwood/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Imagesstory last updated Jun 12

The Facts

A report released Monday by the Norwegian Peace Research Institute of Oslo (PRIO) stated there were 59 military conflicts around the world last year, the highest since the end of World War II, the majority of which are located in Africa.
According to PRIO, Africa accounted for 28 of the 59 wars, followed by Asia (17), the Middle East (10), Europe (3), and the Americas (1). Despite this, the number of nations plagued by conflict has decreased from 39 in 2022 to 34.

The Spin

Narrative A

Coinciding with this report, the Global Peace Index 2024 was released, showing that the world economic impact of war and conflict was $19.1T last year, while only $49.6B was spent on peacebuilding and peacekeeping, representing less than 0.6% of total military spending. The world isn't doing enough to bring about peace.

ReliefWeb

Narrative B

Contrary to popular belief, the world has become increasingly violent. With the last three years having seen a record number of conflicts and deaths than at any time in the previous 30 years, it is becoming increasingly difficult for governments, NGOs, and international organizations to provide support to people in need.