Geopolitics and food security: A comprehensive review of emerging risks and responses

Abstract

This review paper examines the relationship between geopolitics and food security through a Systematic Literature Review guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework. A total of 15 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2015 and 2026 were reviewed to identify emerging geopolitical risks and responses affecting global food systems. The study synthesizes literature on armed conflicts, trade restrictions, climate change, supply chain disruptions, energy market instability, and technological transformation in agriculture. The findings identified four major themes. First, geopolitical conflicts and protectionist trade policies significantly disrupt global food supply chains and increase food price volatility. Second, climate-related shock such as droughts, floods, and extreme weather events intensifies food insecurity, particularly in import-dependent and developing economies. Third, weaknesses in global logistics and energy dependence expose food systems to external shocks and market instability. Fourth, technological innovations, including smart farming, precision agriculture, and digital monitoring systems, play an increasingly important role in strengthening agricultural productivity, improving resource efficiency, and enhancing resilience against geopolitical and environmental uncertainties. The policy implications of this study include strengthening regional food reserves, diversifying import sources, investing in climate-resilient agriculture, promoting the adoption of smart farming technologies, and enhancing institutional cooperation between governments and international organizations. The relevance of smart farming is increasingly evident, as precision agriculture, Internet of Things (IoT)-based monitoring systems, and data-driven farming technologies play a critical role in improving productivity, reducing resource inefficiency, and enhancing food system resilience under geopolitical stress. The study contributes to a broader understanding of how geopolitical dynamics shape food security and provides recommendations for building sustainable, resilient, and technology-driven food systems in an increasingly uncertain global environment.