Corruption can worsen food insecurity in several ways, such as by affecting food availability (for example, by reducing the small farmers food production capabilities) or because households have to spend money on bribes that would otherwise be destined for food. Corruption is also predicted to aggravate the current food crisis. There are several corruption risks that emerge at different points in the food value chain, depending on the nature of the food product as well as the context of its production, storage, distribution and delivery. Two of the most important resources for food, land and water, hold several corruption risks that include embezzlement, land grabbing and extortion. Government subsidies and aid programmes also have important corruption risks that can prevent them from reaching those in need. Women, the poor and other marginalised populations are disproportionately affected by the food crisis, and any anti-corruption strategy aimed at food security should take their specific necessities into account.

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