Understanding and Addressing Multifaceted Factors Influencing Refugee Food Security: A Comparative Study in Ukraine and Switzerland amid Global Forced Displacement

Abstract. The humanitarian crisis resulting from forced displacement has escalated the global refugee population to over 108 million individuals in 2022, with 35.3 million classified as refugees. Unfortunately, prospects for reducing these numbers in 2023 remain grim. This study aims to comprehensively understand the multifaceted factors influencing food security among refugees amid the ongoing global humanitarian crisis of forced displacement. By focusing on the geographic origins of refugees and their destinations in various host countries including the United States, Germany, France, Great Britain, Canada, and Switzerland the research aims to uncover the intricate interplay between cultural preferences, environmental contexts, and the distinctive attributes of host nations. The study delves into the challenges faced by refugees during their journeys across different territories, considering the substantial cultural, climatic, and religious differences encountered. Specifically, it scrutinizes how these differences impact food accessibility, cooking practices, and social dietary norms, consequently shaping the overall food security status of displaced populations. Multiple contributing factors that significantly affect refugee food security are identified within this research. These encompass legislative readiness, cultural and religious influences on dietary preferences, gender disparities, infrastructure availability, healthcare accessibility, environmental adaptation, employment opportunities, education access, food aid availability, and legal status. The study recognizes the intricate interconnectedness of these elements, forming a complex network that necessitates detailed examination and analysis. Through a comparative analysis between refugees' food security in Ukraine and those relocated to Switzerland, the study sheds light on the alarming levels of food insecurity prevalent in both regions. Despite a global trend of heightened insecurity, the research uncovers a particularly acute set of food-related challenges faced by refugees in Switzerland compared to those remaining in Ukraine. These challenges manifest in reduced meal sizes, skipped meals, hunger episodes, and financial constraints hindering food purchases, particularly prominent in Switzerland. Utilizing statistical methodologies like Pearson correlation coefficients, the study highlights the profound impact of gender, household size, age, and education levels on refugee food security. Notably, the study observes that pre-war income did not demonstrably affect food security levels among the displaced population. To address these critical issues, the study proposes a comprehensive strategy encompassing a decade-long survey in Ukraine, thorough data and policy analyses, educational integration, and the formulation of practical recommendations. The overarching goal is to catalyze meaningful, tangible changes in refugee food security by amalgamating rigorous research, in-depth analysis, stakeholder engagement, and educational initiatives to effectuate substantial transformations in this vital domain.