Causes and Influences on Food Crises
- Food crises begin with moderate food security which, if unchecked, evolves into severe food insecurity and finally leads to food shortages, temporary hunger, and a famine.
- This shift is gradual and can stretch over long periods of time, being impacted by diverse physical and human factors as it unfolds.
Governance: A Critical Factor in Food Crises
Definition
Governance
Governance refers to how decisions are made and implemented by governments and institutions.
- Poor governance can worsen food crises in several ways:
1. Poor Planning and Corruption
- Lack of Preparedness: Governments may fail to invest in early warning systems, food storage, or irrigation infrastructure.
- Corruption: Misappropriation of funds intended for food aid or agricultural development can leave populations vulnerable.
In Somalia, corruption and mismanagement of resources weakened the government's ability to respond to the 2011 famine.
2. Political Instability and Conflict
- Disruption of Food Systems: Conflict can destroy farms, markets, and supply chains.
- Restricted Aid Access: Warring factions may block humanitarian aid to control populations or gain leverage.
During the Somalia famine, militant groups like Al-Shabaab restricted aid access, exacerbating the crisis.
NoteGovernance is not just about government actions. It includes the roles of NGOs, international organizations, and local communities in managing food systems.
Media Influence: Amplifying or Distorting the Crisis?
- The media plays a dual role in food crises: raising awareness and potentially politicizing the situation.
1. Raising Awareness and Mobilizing Aid
- Global Attention: Media coverage can highlight the severity of a crisis, prompting international aid.
- Speeding Up Response: Real-time reporting can accelerate the delivery of food, medical supplies, and financial assistance.
Images and stories from the Somalia famine spurred global donations and interventions by organizations like the UN and Red Cross.
