(By Aryavart International University, India)
Dr. Jaffar. B. AL-Dujaili
Vol. 16, Jul-Dec 2023
Abstract:
The concept of food security emerged in the 1970s during discussions about international food problems amid the global food crisis. During crises, food prices rise due to exporting countries withholding their exports for security and strategic reasons. In the end, we will arrive at some conclusions and recommendations that can help address food security crisis in the Arab world. The food gap in Arab countries persists despite increased crop production due to various factors, including rapid population growth, climate changes affecting crop production, challenges in the agricultural sector like funding shortages, technology, and trained labor, and international trade restrictions on food products. Improving agricultural productivity and infrastructure in Arab countries is of paramount importance for achieving food security. This requires international cooperation, sustainable investments, and better distribution of agricultural production. It is also important to preserve traditional agricultural knowledge and heritage. Factors influencing agricultural production and the food gap in Arab countries include the development of necessary infrastructure, enhancing cooperation and coordination between Arab countries in agriculture and trade, investing in agricultural education and training, and utilizing agricultural resources such as land and water. However, many countries face challenges like water scarcity, poor soil quality, and limited capacities, negatively impacting food security. The traditional concept of food security, focusing on achieving self-sufficiency through local food production, differs from the definition of the Food and Agriculture Organization, which emphasizes the balance between supply and demand. Economic transformations make the latter definition more compatible.