Innovative strategy to achieve food security in the Republic of South Ossetia

Abstract

Achieving food security is a pressing issue for many countries. Over the past years, the global emphasis has transitioned from merely comprehending the challenge to actively formulating policies and crafting innovative solutions to ensure food security worldwide. This research specifically targets South Ossetia’s food security status and the potential innovative strategies in agriculture to enhance it. Utilizing a blend of analytical, economic-statistical, and benchmarking methodologies, combined with data sourced from South Ossetia’s official statistics and various Russian agencies, the findings paint a concerning picture. South Ossetia’s agriculture is facing escalating difficulties characterized by production inefficiencies and foundational economic hurdles. Alarmingly, the region’s food security is teetering on the edge, evidenced by a glaring deficit of 47.5 thousand tons in basic foodstuffs production in 2022 alone. For South Ossetia to navigate these challenges and attain its food security goals, a two-pronged approach is pivotal. First, an innovative overhaul of its agro-industrial sector is necessary, promoting its seamless integration with the broader Russian economic framework. Subsequently, aligning with the EAEU member states’ food systems could further reinforce this. Such transformative initiatives in agriculture will not only secure food supply but can also rejuvenate the region’s social infrastructure and elevate its attractiveness for migration.