The integrated food security phase classification (IPC) - A review

This document begins by reviewing the various components of the IPC programme (reference table, mapping …). Then it presents its strengths (one of IPC's advantages is to be a "common currency" for reporting used by all countries and donors). The study also reviews some ten drawbacks of the IPC, including the confusion that exists in stages 1 and 2 on the notions of length and severity of food insecurity, the question of availability of data and the lack of advice on how to carry out an analysis. For each of these weak points, the study suggests possible improvements. The document ends by producing a list of the advantages of using IPC in Sub-Saharan Africa, and a list of the resources and capacities needed for implementing the programme.

 RHVP - April 2007