Abstract
Dependency Theory, in the context of food aid, holds that food aid and subsequent increases in food supply disincentivize local agricultural production, resulting in local dependence on food aid for survival. But, is this actually the case? This article first explains the economic theory behind Dependency Theory, then examines why this theory may not connect to reality and some strategies for remedying the flaws of modern non-emergency food aid to ensure effective humanitarian aid.
Recommended Citation
Dugas, Stevi
(2025)
"Does Free Food Lead to Less Food? Dependency Theory & The Ambiguous Effects of Food Aid,"
Osmosis Magazine: Vol. 2025:
Iss.
2, Article 12.
Available at:
https://scholarship.richmond.edu/osmosis/vol2025/iss2/12
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