Paper short abstract:

This paper highlights the complexity and conflicting priorities surrounding the concept of resilience in cocoa farming, such as the tension between short-term profitability for farmers and long-term sustainable practices as well as the lack of alignment between policies and practices.

Paper long abstract:

Using specific interventions, this research will interrogate the use of the concept of resilience as it applies to cocoa farming in West Africa. Resilience in cocoa farming in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana is a complex and multifaceted concept that is considered essential for the long-term viability of the industry and the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities. However, the pursuit of resilience in this context has been plagued by contradictions and conflicting priorities. There is a contradiction between the need for short-term profitability which is good for farmers livelihood and the long-term sustainable farming practices necessary for resilience. Additionally, there is often a conflict between the needs of farmers and the interests of other stakeholders, such as chocolate companies and international buyers, who prioritize their own goals in the resilience discourse. Some of the policies and practices deemed resilient are not aligned with the livelihood needs and priorities of farmers, reducing their ability to adapt to future changing conditions. Addressing these contradictions and finding solutions that balance the competing priorities is impossible due to the power imbalance and the ability of certain stakeholders to shape the discourse.