Food Security in the Middle East

Abstract

The Middle East region has been faced with various challenges that are associated with food security. These are perpetuated by water scarcity, an increase in the population numbers in the region, climate change and unemployment. Notably, these factors are intricate and self augmenting and thus, the problem is very complex. Most recently, the theory of virtual water has been proposed as the best approach of addressing this scenario.

However, this study found out that various social, cultural, economic and political factors undermine its implication. The present trends indicate that the region is highly dependent on food imports and that the trend is set to increase in future. Besides highlighting the various challenges that the region faces in a bit to attain food security, this study presents viable approaches like the population control and the increased education levels and awareness creation that can be used to address the challenges in a sustainable manner.

Keywords: Middle East, food security, virtual water, trends.