Hamfarir

Hamfarir is the Icelandic term for a period of severe food shortage that leads to hunger and malnutrition. In both historical and modern usage, it describes a state in which food supply is insufficient to meet the needs of the population, often accompanied by rising prices and social stress.

Causes include agricultural failure due to drought or cold weather, natural disasters, disease among crops or livestock, economic disruption, war, blockades, and disruptions to trade or markets. Climate extremes and pest outbreaks can also contribute.

Consequences include elevated mortality from starvation and disease, malnutrition, widened inequality, social unrest, and migration or distress selling assets.

Historical and global context shows that famines have occurred in many regions and eras. Europe experienced famines in the Middle Ages and early modern period; the Irish Potato Famine of the 1840s is a well-known example; contemporary famines occur in various parts of the world during periods of conflict or drought. In Icelandic history, hamfarir are sometimes linked to environmental disasters such as volcanic eruptions that disrupted harvests and livestock.

Responses and prevention emphasize reducing risk and mitigating impacts. Governments and aid organizations use harvest measures, food reserves, price stabilization, importation, safety nets, early warning systems, and long-term development to lessen the severity and duration of hamfarir.