The Livelihood Resilience of Smallholder Farmers: A Review

Abstract

The livelihood resilience of smallholder farmers has become an important issue affecting food security and rural development. This paper presents a systematic review of 135 important publications on smallholders’ livelihood resilience from 2009 to 2025, covering the framework and methods of measurement, influencing factors, and strategies and practices. We find that the authors studying smallholders’ livelihood resilience mainly come from China, and the research topics are strongly related to macro policies. Second, the major frameworks of measurement include sustainable livelihoods framework, socio‐ecological system resilience framework, household livelihood resilience approach, vulnerability framework and resilience index measurement and analysis framework. The research methods include quantitative, qualitative, and mixed approaches. Third, the livelihood resilience of smallholder farmers is influenced by multidimensional factors, such as livelihood capital, household geographic characteristics, market and value chain, climate change. Fourth, there are many strategies and practices for enhancing livelihood resilience of smallholder farmers, including agroecological and technological system innovation, livelihood diversification and capacity building, institutional strengthening and empowerment, knowledge systems and innovation support. Finally, the existing research is marked by inconsistent measurement frameworks, insufficient longitudinal data, and limited policy universality. Future research should identify resilience thresholds, target vulnerable groups, and develop actionable monitoring tools for policymakers.