The 'Fear of Hunger' as a Migration Motivation: A Case Study Examining Central American Migration in the American South

Principal Investigator: Shrinidhi Ambinakudige

Led by Dr. Shrinidhi Ambinakudige, this project explored the role of food insecurity, specifically the “fear of hunger,” as a driving force behind migration from Central America to the American South. Through a combination of qualitative interviews, focus groups, and secondary data analysis, the study aimed to develop and validate a novel metric for understanding food-related migration motivations.

The research team conducted interviews across multiple sites in Mississippi, including Vardaman, Starkville, Flowood, and Morton, with the support of local partner organizations. A native Spanish-speaking graduate student was hired to assist with translation and transcription, ensuring cultural and linguistic accuracy. The project yielded rich qualitative data, which was analyzed using NVivo software, and preliminary findings were presented at academic conferences.

One of the most significant outcomes of the project was the development of a new measurement tool for assessing the fear of hunger, which is now being incorporated into a larger international study. A collaborative proposal with the World Food Programme was submitted, with plans to launch a $500,000 study in Honduras and the Sahel region in early 2023. This pilot project not only validated a new conceptual framework but also laid the foundation for impactful global research on food insecurity and migration. It demonstrated the value of community-based research and international collaboration in addressing complex humanitarian challenges.