A humanitarian crisis continues to plague the African nation of Sudan, where food shortages and drought are contributing to violence, political instability and death.

According to the United Nations, half of southern Sudan's population faces desperate food shortages. More and more people are going without food or water thanks to growing violence from civil conflict and violence.

The United Nations says that approximately 360,000 people have fled their homes in the violence between the majority black African south and the predominantly Arab north.

Though fighting ended five years ago and nationwide elections are on the horizon, NewsHour correspondent Fred de Sam Lazaro looks at how food insecurity and violence might hamper the success of a future electoral process.

"It's going to be difficult [to hold elections], particularly among communities that haven't -- haven't exercised this democratic experience before. We can hope for the best, and that this is the beginning of something much longer-term. - Zach Vertin, International Crisis Group

"Access to basic health care is minimal. And, if we look on the ground, what we see is an unfolding humanitarian crisis." - Akko Eleveld, Doctors Without Borders

1. Where is Sudan?

2. What do you know about Sudan?

1. What did you learn from this video? Did any of the information surprise you?

2. According to the video, why are there food shortages in Africa?

3. According to the video, why would it be difficult to hold free and fair elections in Sudan?

4. How do hunger or drought contribute to political or social instability?