Research
August 2025 · DOI
Food Security Shocks and Political Instability: A Sub-National Analysis of the Sahel
This paper examines food security shocks and political instability. Drawing on original data and 60 expert interviews, we find that existing policy frameworks underestimate systemic risk and overestimate institutional capacity. Technology is both part of the problem and part of the solution. The same digital tools that enable faster coordination also create new vulnerabilities, from data leaks to targeted disinformation campaigns that exploit existing social divisions. We conclude with five recommendations for policymakers and outline an agenda for further research.
Elena Petrova, Mei Lin et al.
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