Food security and food sovereignty in Tarija-Bolivia: Public policy opportunities and challenges in rural communities

Insufficient access to water, seeds and agricultural resources, as well as low levels of education and other economic means, have affected food security levels of campesinos (peasants) in rural municipalities in Bolivia. This study, using quantitative research (household survey), assesses the demographic, economic, agricultural characteristics of 96 campesino households. Moreover, through qualitative research (interviews and document analysis), the study examines the current national policy framework and the municipal capacity to implement projects that improve campesino food security levels. Using food sovereignty as a framework, the research suggests four policy alternatives to improve agroecological productivity among rural households. Based on the analysis of all policy options, the research recommends that municipalities increase investments in agricultural productivity projects, starting by enhancing current school feeding programs.