Social safety nets and the food security crisis

This briefing note defines the main concepts related to social safety nets and food security. It first defines the main characteristics of social safety nets. Then it outlines the main instruments that can be used: cash transfer or food vouchers, food distribution in kind, universal food subsidy, employment-based safety nets. Finally the note draws lessons learned from the 2008 food security crisis. It lists a series of essential references on the topic.