evidence: The RFSA found significant differences in regional vulnerability. However, the highest levels of vulnerability were found in the north-eastern region, in particular North Hamgyong Province where a majority of households interviewed had poorer dietary diversity and lower coping strategies compared to other provinces. The region is historically disadvantaged due to remoteness, lack of arable land and gradual decline in industries. Ryanggang Province is also vulnerable due to the absence of a second harvest (in June), low availability of arable land and short growing seasons. [...] The destruction caused by the floods and the poor prospects for the 2007/08 main crop harvest prompted the Government to take measures to mitigate the food crisis. In May 2008, the DPRK and the United States governments concluded a protocol allowing for the distribution of up to 500 000 tonnes of food assistance under improved operating conditions and expanded humanitarian access. The bulk of the food contribution is to be channelled through WFP (up to 400 000 tonnes), while the remainder will be distributed by a consortium of five US NGOs (up to 100 000 tonnes). These developments provided the context for a joint Rapid Food Security Assessment in June/July 2008 and the basis for WFP’s Emergency Operation launched in September 2008. The EMOP provides for food assistance to an estimated 6.2 million beneficiaries in 131 counties/districts in 8 provinces (Ryanggang, North Hamgyong, South Hamgyong, Kangwon, North Hwanghae, South Hwanghae, South Phyongan and Pyongyang).17