The Political Economy of Food and Nutrition Policies (International Food Policy Research Institute)

In this volume Per Pinstrup-Andersen brings together a distinguished group of leading authorities to extend the analysis of food and nutrition policy beyond the simple measurement of cost-effectiveness.Using qualitative as well as quantitative data from Asia, Latin America, and the United States, the authors ask how these policies are formulated within larger political and economic contexts and follow the impact of these policies on the populations involved. They contend that explicit consideration of economic as well as political trade-offs is likely to result in more realistic advice to governments, identification of opportunities for coalition-building, more effective government action, and reduced food insecurity and malnutrition.The book is divided into five parts. Part One provides evidence of national political economy issues related to food and nutrition. Part Two examines the impact of policies at the local and household levels. Part Three explores the relationship of nutrition and labor productivity. Part Four assesses future research needs and policy implications. Part Five offers general conclusions by the volume's editor.