LAC/RSD engaged systems researchers to analyze that information, as well as data from a regionally focused literature review, to understand how the complex cause-and-effect relationships between factors affect IUUF in each area so that Missions can design activities to support local and national sustainable development while building resilience to the myriad and dynamic influences of the IUUF system.

The analysis focused closely on reinforcing feedback loops in which a change in one factor creates a change in another factor which then reinforces the change in the first factor, commonly called vicious cycles. This briefer includes system analyses for each of the three geographies; the analyses uncovered key factors, leverage points, and relevant feedback loops. These in turn underpin recommendations for possible actions, including to leverage feedback loops (i.e., transform vicious circles into virtuous ones), to improve understanding of the system (i.e., monitor key indicators and fill knowledge gaps), and to build coalitions to scale impacts (i.e., partner with key organizations).