Humanitarian crises can weaken public institutions, fragment markets and restrict access to land, water and other productive resources, while exposing the risks associated with dependence on external inputs, long supply chains and volatile imports. Drawing on three pilot initiatives in Kenya, Lebanon and Nepal, this IIED briefing examines whether agroecological approaches can help address these vulnerabilities while supporting humanitarian objectives and greater self-reliance.

The briefing presents reflections from the project Easing and de-risking transition to climate-resilient food production for enhanced self-reliance in humanitarian contexts. It considers agroecology not only in terms of agricultural production, but as an approach connecting production, markets, institutions, social relations and consumption. The pilots explore how locally anchored and socially inclusive food systems could strengthen resilience in settings affected by humanitarian crises, including through reduced exposure to external shocks and improved use of local resources and capacities.

Rather than presenting agroecology as a universal solution, the briefing uses experience from the three contexts to consider its relevance and practical application under crisis conditions. It highlights the potential contribution of agroecological transitions to climate-resilient food production and more resilient local food systems, while recognizing the institutional, market and livelihood constraints that shape what can be achieved in humanitarian settings.