Determinants of Food Insecurity in Tunisia’s Labor Force During the Ukraine-Russia Conflict
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33032/acr.6744Kulcsszavak:
food insecurity scale FIES, Tunisia, labor force, Russia-Ukraine war, employment statusAbsztrakt
The Russia-Ukraine conflict, which began in February 2022, has severely disrupted global wheat supply chains, with significant repercussions for food security in import-dependent countries like Tunisia. This study investigates the war’s Determinants on food insecurity levels among Tunisia’s labor force, aged 25–54, using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). Focusing on employment status, gender, region (urban vs. rural), and income level, the research examines food insecurity trends across three periods: pre-war (18 months before February 2022), the first 18 months of the war (February 2022 – July 2023), and the subsequent 18 months (August 2023 – January 2025). Survey data from 166 respondents reveal significant disparities: unemployed individuals experienced universal food insecurity (100%) during and after the war, while employed individuals showed partial recovery. Gender disparities emerged in the post-war period, with women facing higher food insecurity rates (49.55%) compared to men (23.81%). Regional differences were also pronounced, with rural areas exhibiting lower food insecurity than urban areas. These findings highlight the disproportionate impact of the war on vulnerable populations and underscore the need for targeted interventions, such as employment programs, gender-sensitive policies, and regional food security initiatives, to mitigate long-term food insecurity in Tunisia.
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