FEWS NET’s analysis is grounded in a deep understanding of the livelihood patterns and options available to households. In the context of food security, livelihoods are defined as the means through which people access food and earn income to meet basic needs. In most cases, livelihoods analysis focuses on a geographic area – known as livelihood zones –  where people share similar livelihood patterns and access to markets. FEWS NET’s use of livelihoods information is based on the Household Economy Analysis (HEA).

For early warning of food insecurity, livelihoods analysis provides invaluable insight into a household group’s vulnerability to a shock (such as drought, or above-average food prices) and the coping mechanisms that are available to them when a shock occurs. This analysis helps humanitarian organizations target resources to those with the greatest needs. It also helps identify priority areas, populations, and variables for ongoing food security monitoring.

FEWS NET’s knowledge base on livelihoods includes livelihood zone maps, descriptions, profiles, baselines, and seasonal monitoring calendars.

Livelihoods-based analysis underpins scenario development, the methodology FEWS NET uses to project future food insecurity. At each step of scenario development, livelihoods information is incorporated into the analysis. FEWS NET’s guidance document on Integrating Livestock Herd Dynamics into Scenario Development provides detailed guidance on the formulation of assumptions related to pastoral livelihoods within the context of the scenario development process.