Food security and nutrition

Food security means having access to enough food to stay healthy and active. An emergency becomes a food crisis if people, for whatever reason, don't have enough food.

Often, food crises happen, not because there is insufficient food in a country, but because the most vulnerable people are unable to access it - for example because it costs too much.

There are many solutions to food crises, so it is essential that our assistance is based on a good understanding of the causes of each situation. Specialist staff always carry out an assessment before we take any further action.

Saving lives

Providing people with food may be of immedite benefit in preventing the life-threatening risk of malnutrition. However, if by giving food aid we affect an existing local economy, we could be doing more harm than good.

Sustainable solutions

Situations are often complex and require more enduring solutions. For example, giving cash in exchange for work is a very successful way of meeting people's needs in emergencies. People can choose what they buy, and it supports local markets.

We also help communities access seeds and tools, or vaccinations and fodder to keep livestock alive during the worst months. With animals that are unlikely to survive we may undertake destocking. We may help people improve soil quality and maintain irrigation systems, or support them in finding alternative employment.

Pushing for change

Sometimes the root of the problem is one of long-term institutional marginalisation. In which case Oxfam might support communities to lobby for changes in the law, or for recognition of their existing rights.

Other things we do in emergencies

Protection
Disaster risk reduction
Water and sanitation
Health promotion