Back-Burner Crises

As the U.S. media (and even much of the international media as well) focuses on the final weeks of the U.S. presidential race and the decline of world economic markets, many stories which would otherwise have been deemed “news-worthy crises” have been dubbed “back-burner stories.” But the lack of reporting does not diminish their seriousness in any way.

Perhaps one of the more critical news items is the fact that hunger is gripping much of Zimbabwe. As Zimbabwe leaders continue to be embroiled in political struggles, the poorest of the country continue to suffer. (This probably could be written about any number of nations).

“In previous years," one 54-year-old resident explained, "we used to harvest a few bags of grain. But this year there is nothing." She is caring for her husband who has tuberculosis and their four children.

The World Food Program found Zimbabweans getting by on one meal a day, of corn meal porridge and a few vegetables for the lucky, but only wild fruit for others. It is estimated that 45 percent of Zimbabwe's population will need food help by early 2009. The food agency said its stocks would run out in January -- "at the very peak of the crisis" -- if it did not get more help from donors. It has received almost $175 million so far this year for Zimbabwe, but needed $140 million more to fund emergency operations through April.

In a world caught up in the midst of a global economic crisis, such a shortfall could mean a humanitarian tragedy as millions of people may die from starvation.

When do stories like this move to the front page?