An Integrative Approach to Understand Resource Investment, Livelihood and Food Security Nexus in Laos

The paper draws attention to an integrative approach of studying the nexus of resource development, livelihood and food security in resource rich but economically poor developing countries. The paper illustrates an example of applying mixed method approach, which incorporates spatial analysis, community and household survey to study the links between resource development, livelihood and food security in Laos, a least developed country in the mainland Southeast Asia known for its resource wealth. The paper highlights the linkage between the declining resource base and the problem of food insecurity in Laos. It also highlights the inequitable effects of resource investments on people’s access to food and wellbeing, and the ways in which different population groups are adapting to the changing social and natural environment.