Hungry Faces Beyond the Battlefield—Examining Global Food Security in the Context of the Russo-Ukrainian Conflict in a Low- to Middle-Income Population in West Bengal: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

The Russo-Ukrainian conflict has garnered global attention for its geopolitical ramifications, but its impact on food security in regions far from the battlefield remains underexplored. This qualitative study delves into the repercussions of the conflict on food security within a low- to middle-income population in Murshidabad, West Bengal, India. Employing semi-structured interviews and Likert scale assessments, we sought to understand the nuanced experiences and perceptions of individuals affected by the conflict-induced disruptions in global food markets. Our findings reveal profound challenges to food security, with 68% of respondents reporting increased difficulty in accessing affordable and nutritious food since the onset of the conflict. Moreover, 52% expressed heightened concerns about future food availability and affordability, indicating a pervasive sense of uncertainty and anxiety. Importantly, qualitative analysis uncovered multifaceted impacts, including disruptions in supply chains, inflationary pressures, and shifts in dietary patterns towards less nutritious options. This study highlights the interconnectedness of geopolitical conflicts and local food security, shedding light on the often-overlooked consequences faced by vulnerable populations thousands of miles away from the conflict zone. Such insights underscore the imperative for coordinated international efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of conflicts on food security and safeguard the well-being of communities worldwide. These findings contribute to a growing body of literature on the complex interplay between global geopolitics and local livelihoods, urging policymakers to adopt holistic approaches to address the multifaceted challenges of food insecurity in conflict-affected regions and beyond.