Famine and food security: new trends and systems or politics as usual? : Susanne Jaspars, and Luka Biong Deng Kuol / Disasters

Article shared by Angela Raven Roberts

Greetings - I am posting links to an upcoming series of articles in Disasters which review changing debates and emerging issues on famine and food insecurity. As we all witness the rapidly changing global order and the changing humanitarian business model and architecture, it will be pertinent to see how the weaponization of food (in) security issues will continue to play out into this new future. Best regards Angela.

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Summaries of the articles 

Famine and Food Security: New Trends and Systems or Politics as Usual?

The introductory article sets the stage for the special issue, highlighting the increasing prevalence of famine and food insecurity. It calls for a renewed focus on the political and social dynamics of hunger, moving beyond technocratic solutions.

Five Levels of Famine Prevention: A Framework for the 21st Century

This piece proposes a comprehensive framework for famine prevention, outlining five levels: averting, anticipating, reducing, altering, and addressing famine risks. It advocates for proactive and systemic approaches to mitigate hunger. 

Hunger in Global War Economies: Understanding Famine Trends

This article analyzes the resurgence of famine in the context of global war economies. It discusses how modern conflicts and economic policies contribute to mass starvation, challenging previous assumptions about the decline of famines.

Sudan's Catastrophe: Dynamics of Food and Conflict

The study delves into the complex relationship between political conflict and food insecurity in Sudan. It examines how historical and ongoing power struggles contribute to famine conditions, emphasizing the need for political solutions. 

Food Systems in Protracted Crises: Indigenous Food Sovereignty in Kashmir

This article explores how prolonged conflict and economic marginalization in Kashmir have disrupted local food systems. It emphasizes the importance of indigenous food sovereignty as a means to resist de-development and sustain cultural identity.

Food Insecurity, Xenophobia, and Political Legitimacy in South Africa

The study examines the interplay between food insecurity and xenophobic sentiments in South Africa. It argues that weak governance and global economic shocks exacerbate food shortages, which in turn fuel social tensions and challenge political legitimacy. 

Music and the Politics of Famine: Discourses and Shame in South Sudan

This paper analyzes how music in South Sudan serves as a medium for expressing experiences of famine. It discusses how songs shape public discourse, assign blame, and influence perceptions of accountability during food crises.

Breaking from the Past? Environmental Narratives and Power in Syria

The article investigates how environmental narratives are used by various actors in Syria to legitimize control over resources. It highlights the role of environmental discourse in shaping power dynamics and access to food during conflict.