Food security and its impact on Saudi Arabia’s national security and gulf security
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53477/2284-9378-25-12Keywords:
Food security, national security, Saudi Arabia, Gulf region.Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between food security and national security in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. It examines the impact of food insecurity on Saudi national security and the broader Arabian Gulf security, identifies the major challenges and limitations facing current food security policies and programs, and proposes strategic recommendations for enhancing food security. The study reveals direct impacts such as social unrest, economic instability, health implications, and migration while also highlighting indirect impacts, including political instability, economic consequences, social fragmentation, demographic pressures, and regional instability. The identified challenges encompass climate change, water scarcity, reliance on food imports, inefficient agricultural practices, socioeconomic disparities, and limited technology adoption. To address these challenges, the study recommends prioritising comprehensive food security policies, increasing investments in agriculture, research, and infrastructure, and fostering collaboration among governments, international organizations, academia, and the private sector. The findings underscore the significance of addressing food security to ensure national and regional stability and resilience in the face of evolving food security concerns.
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