Digital agricultural extension in fragile and conflict-affected countries: evidence from Myanmar

Purpose Access to agricultural extension and crop advisory services is critical, yet, in conflict-affected settings, their delivery and use are poorly understood. This paper has three objectives: first, to assess the distribution and types of agricultural extension services used by farmers in Myanmar; second, to examine changes in service use before and during conflict, focusing on the rise of digital agricultural services; and third, to analyze patterns of inclusion in accessing these services, comparing digital and in-person options.Design/methodology/approach We use a mixed-method approach for analysis. We rely on primary data from unique, large-scale, and repeated farm surveys conducted in Myanmar. This is complemented by a descriptive analysis of major digital extension platforms and contextual interviews with digital extension providers.Findings Since the onset of conflict, the use of in-person extension services has declined, while digital services have risen, with over 50 percent of farmers accessing them. Nonetheless, access remains uneven, with better-educated, wealthier, less remote, and more secure farmers benefiting disproportionately from both in-person and digital extension services.Practical implications Digital extension services have potential in conflict-affected settings but require targeted interventions to bridge access gaps. Policymakers must address digital literacy, connectivity, and affordability barriers.Theoretical implications Our research contributes to the literature by assessing the structure of digital extension services, focusing on their use in fragile settings, and advancing knowledge on the inclusiveness of agricultural extension in conflict-affected contexts.Originality/value This study provides timely evidence on digital agricultural advisory services in conflict settings, offering lessons for similar fragile environments globally.