State of food insecurity in the world 2011: how does international price volatility affect domestic economies and food security?

This report describes the effects of price volatility on food security and presents policy options to reduce volatility in a cost-effective manner and to manage it when it cannot be avoided, especially in relation to weather shocks such as floods or droughts. The options presented also address sustained access to food for all and reduction of vulnerability to 'natural' disasters such as drought. The report advocates for providing improved market information, creating gender-sensitive safety nets that are designed in advance and can be implemented quickly in times of crisis, and investing in agriculture for the long-term to make it more productive and resilient to shocks.

The overall report highlights the differential impacts that the world food crisis of 2006-08 had on different countries, with the poorest being most affected. This year's report focuses on the costs of food price volatility, as well as the dangers and opportunities presented by high food prices.