Conflict, migration and food security:
The role of agriculture and rural development
José Graziano da Silva and Shenggen Fan
Protracted conflicts around the world have been a main cause of a rise in global hunger in recent years. Conflicts are also driving the dramatic increase in the number of forcibly displaced people ?from 40 million people in 2011 to almost 66 million in 2016. Rural areas are bearing the brunt of these conflicts, and rural populations are most severely affected. Conflict is often compounded by drought and other climate shocks, exacerbating the impacts on rural food security and livelihoods. Migration is one way people try to cope. But forced movements of people and food insecurity may also fuel conflicts. While the impacts of this vicious circle are obvious, the causes can be complex. How conflict creates food insecurity, and when conflict and food insecurity drive people to abandon their livelihoods and migrate, differ from place to place. Where do we begin to prevent and mitigate these complex problems? Responses should start from a clear understanding of the root causes underlying conflicts, movements of people, and persistent food insecurity. While humanitarian aid is essential in the short-term to prevent food crises and famines lasting solutions will require programs and support measures that address these root causes by providing people with the means to rebuild their livelihoods. Restoring agriculture, food production, and rural livelihoods before, during, and after conflict will be key to building sustainable solutions.
Read entire FAO-IFPRI Joint Brief.