FOOD SECURITY AS AN ELEMENT OF NATIONAL SECURITY OF UKRAINE: PRINCIPLES AND INFLUENCING FACTORS

Abstract

The article elucidates the essence of food security as a component of Ukraine's national security by defining the basic principles of its provision and conducting a detailed analysis of internal and external factors of influence, considering modern threats, trends, and international experience in ensuring the population's food supply. Considering that ensuring constant access to quality food (and in sufficient quantities) generally determines the level of social tension, financial stability, and the vital activity of the state, it is determined that food security should be considered one of the main components of Ukraine's national security. World food crises, military aggression, and global climate change underscore the importance of addressing food security issues. It is established that among the main challenges, it is worth highlighting the decline in agricultural production, disruption of logistics, political and economic instability, as well as dependence on international markets. At the same time, international experience in food security management, combined with recommendations from organizations such as the FAO, WFP, and the EU, enables the integration of sustainability, adaptability, and systematicity principles into national policies. It has been proven that food security requires clear management based on agreed-upon principles, in particular, strategic planning, a scientifically based approach, interdepartmental coordination, and consideration of the needs of vulnerable groups within the population. Only under the conditions of a comprehensive vision and practical implementation can food security fulfill its key role in strengthening Ukraine's national security. Thus, an integrated approach to food security management, based on international principles, strategic planning, and intersectoral cooperation, will significantly increase the resilience of this important sector to current and future challenges. Considering the analysis of internal and external factors influencing Ukraine's food security, as well as current threats and international trends, several practical recommendations have been formulated to strengthen the sustainability of the state's food system.