A systematic framework for understanding food security drivers and their interactions

Abstract

Abstract This review analyzes food security drivers through a structured framework developed in this work as part of the SecureFood project, funded by the Horizon Europe programme. The framework categorizes drivers across biophysical, technological, economic, political, and socio-cultural dimensions. It reveals their impacts on the different pillars of food security (i.e., availability, access, utilization, stability, agency, and sustainability). In addition, it uniquely assesses over 100 critical variables affecting food systems, offering insights into how drivers like climate variability, technological innovation, market dynamics, and socio-political changes collectively shape resilience. Key findings highlight that climate-resilient technologies, sustainable practices, and supportive governance can mitigate food system vulnerabilities, but equitable access remains essential. Unlike similar previous studies, the multi-level categorization approach proposed in this framework, which integrates cross-sectoral drivers, enables targeted policy interventions that address the multi-faceted nature of food security challenges. This provides a comprehensive analysis of the risks and opportunities for food security, offering policy-makers insights into the systemic implications of governance interventions. SecureFood fosters cross-sector collaboration, advocating for policies promoting localized production, improved resource management, and sustainable supply chains. The proposed framework empowers policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders by fostering strategies that enhance food security by addressing immediate disruptions and securing long-term system stability, creating equitable and robust food systems that can endure global challenges.