Food Security Challenges in Refugee Settings

Food security is a critical issue that affects millions of displaced individuals worldwide. The definition of food security encompasses the availability, access, and proper utilization of food that ensures a healthy life. For refugees, achieving food security is an ongoing challenge that presents unique obstacles at every stage of displacement: during flight, within refugee camps, and upon resettlement in a new country of arrival.

Food Security During Flight

When people are forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution, the immediate loss of their regular food sources and markets often results in acute food shortages. Refugees and food security challenges begin here, with many depending on humanitarian aid, which might not be immediately available.

In Refugee Camps

Life in refugee camps further complicates access to sufficient and nutritious food. Typically, refugee food rations are provided, but these may not meet the nutritional needs of all individuals. Because of this, health issues, including malnutrition and undernutrition, are prevalent in such settings.

Food in refugee camps is often limited to the basics, which can lead to dietary deficiencies. The rations, although essential, are usually not diverse and are repetitive, which can also affect the overall health and morale of refugees living in the camps. To understand the depth of the issue, one must consider what food support is available in refugee camps, which typically includes staple grains like wheat and rice, pulses like beans and peas, oil (often a corn-soya blend fortified with nutrients), and sometimes fresh produce, but rarely in sufficient quantities.

Resettlement Challenges

Upon resettlement, refugees face new sets of challenges related to food security. While some may be eligible for assistance such as food stamps, the percentage of refugees on food stamps varies greatly by location and individual eligibility. However, in the United States, refugees are at least 28% more likely to experience food insecurity than U.S.-born citizens. The process of integrating into a new community and understanding what resources are available — such as whether refugees can get food stamps — can be daunting.

In the U.S., the positive economic impact of refugee resettlement includes the potential for refugees to eventually contribute to local food security once they become economically active. However, initially, navigating systems and resources like refugee camp food stamps or local food aid can be complex.

Addressing the Challenges

Efforts to improve refugees' food security must consider both immediate needs and long-term strategies. For those looking to support, understanding the best ways to contribute can be crucial. Enhancing food variety and nutrition in camps, providing effective food support systems in resettlement contexts, and ensuring healthcare access for refugees are other critical steps.

The refugee food security challenge requires concerted efforts from governments, NGOs, and the international community. By addressing these food-related issues, we can help improve the lives of those who have been displaced, ensuring that their right to food is fulfilled as they navigate their new realities.

ICMC advocates for the rights of all uprooted people, including refugees, internally displaced persons, and all migrants. ICMC and its members remain committed to supporting immigration policies that produce more sustainable solutions.

ICMC’s efforts include protecting internally displaced children in Burkina Faso, providing support to survivors of gender-based violence in Malaysia, aiding displaced Ukrainians, and more.

We rely on donations to fund our critical humanitarian work and continue changing lives. Find out how you can make a difference and help migrants, internally displaced persons, and refugees in need today!

About the International Catholic Migration Commission

The International Catholic Migration Commission is a nonprofit organization that protects, serves, and advocates for displaced people throughout the world. We help refugees, asylum-seekers, victims of human trafficking, and migrants of all faiths, races, and ethnicities forge lives in safety and dignity.

With support from people like you, ICMC delivers humanitarian aid and social development, protects vulnerable migrants, contributes to refugee resettlement efforts, advocates before governments, and partners with civic leaders. We seek a sustainable solution to dangerous migration and refugee crises.

Find out more by visiting our website.