Improving Food Security in Arab Countries

Abstract

Arab countries, more so than countries in any other region, are extremely vulnerable to food-price shocks. Furthermore, current projections indicate that they will be unable to meet demand with production, which will steadily increase their vulnerability to food-price shocks. There is therefore, a need to develop policies to improve food security for all Arab countries. Food security requires a three pillar approach: pillar one consists of strengthening safety nets, while providing people with access to family planning services, and promoting education; pillar two centers around the need to enhance domestic food sources; and pillar three consists of managing market volatility. These three pillars will emerge as key factors in improving food security. Countries need to consider the way in which they can combine these three pillars to create a comprehensive and integrated strategy.