Food security policy during the covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia

Abstract

Background: The Covid-19 pandemic, which began in early 2020, had a significant impact on various sectors, including the food sector in Indonesia. Food, as a basic human necessity, became a strategic commodity vulnerable to crises during the pandemic. Food policy in Indonesia encompasses subsystems of availability, distribution, and consumption, which affect the stability of supply and access to food. Given the pandemic, the importance of sustainable policy interventions to maintain food security has become crucial. Methods: This study employs a literature review method by collecting, reviewing, and synthesizing various literature from relevant sources. The literature search was conducted systematically through academic databases, focusing on food policy during the pandemic within the environmental science paradigm, including ecosystems, socio-cultural characteristics, and the interrelationship between food, energy, water, and ecological footprint. Findings: The study reveals that the government played a crucial role in maintaining food stability during the Covid-19 pandemic. The government must ensure that all food subsystems, from production to consumption, function optimally. A strong synergy between the government, private sector, and community is required to address potential food crises. Additionally, the stability of agroecosystems is also vital for sustaining agricultural production. Conclusion: Food policy during the pandemic should focus on sustainability and involve various stakeholders. The government needs to coordinate policy processes that encompass the entire food supply chain, from farmers to consumers, to ensure stable food security. Novelty/Originality of this article: The analysis of food policy during the pandemic with an ecological approach highlights the importance of integrating policies, communities, and agricultural ecosystem sustainability.