Estimation of the prevalence of moderate and severe food insecurity in Chilean municipalities using small area estimation methods

Book excerpt: This report presents a comprehensive overview of the methodology and findings stemming from the application of small area estimation (SAE) techniques to the 2020 National Socioeconomic Characterization Survey (CASEN) in Chile. Specifically, it focuses on deriving comuna-level estimates for SDG indicator 2.1.2, which measures the Prevalence of Moderate and Severe Food Insecurity based on the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). The document describes outlines the systematic approach employed in fitting the Fay-Herriot area-level SAE model. The results underscore the significant variation in the prevalence rates of moderate and severe food insecurity across different comunas in Chile. These findings not only underscore the necessity but also the feasibility of utilizing SAE techniques to yield more granular estimates. Such detailed insights are crucial for informed decision-making processes aimed at addressing food insecurity at the local level.