Conflict and Food Security

The relationship between conflict and food security is complex and dynamic. As recent IFPRI research has shown, food insecurity can be both a cause and consequence of conflict. Conflict often reduces food availability and access when agricultural production and markets are disrupted. And food insecurity can trigger an array of responses, from food riots to revolution. Whatever the cause, many millions of people and children are affected, and a large proportion of those affected can become refugees. If not coordinated and supported well, refugees can cause further instability when crossing borders, including rising food and nutrition insecurity. IFPRI researchers are working to solve this vicious cycle by identifying conflict triggers—from climate change and price fluctuations to natural disasters and  weak government structures—that can help inform food security policies and programs as well as to develop food security strategies that can increase resilience.