Fighting in the Fields: The Weaponization of Agriculture & its Legal Significance

Authors

Shelby Lepley, Southern Methodist University, Dedman School of Law

Abstract

National prosperity depends on agricultural production for life-sustaining food, fiber, and by-products. Due to the inherent importance of the agricultural industry, it is often targeted in conflict to gain leverage against opposing forces. The Russo-Ukraine War provides a prime example of agriculture’s role during conflict, especially considering direct attacks to agricultural infrastructure and the Black Sea Grain Initiative. While this is an on-going conflict with emerging developments, this note will briefly examine the aspects of international humanitarian law and trade law that relate to the weaponization of agriculture. Furthermore, the analysis will evaluate whether there is sufficient legal deterrence to prevent targeted attacks on agriculture that may destabilize global markets.

Recommended Citation

Shelby Lepley, Case Note, Fighting in the Fields: The Weaponization of Agriculture & its Legal Significance, ILRA Student Forum (2022)