Elongating the causes of social vulnerability: Historical analysis of social sustainability dimensions in the Ivorian cocoa sector

Despite efforts by governments, industry, civil society and other key stakeholders to ensure fairer farmer incomes, eradicate child labour, and address causes of cocoa-related deforestation, results on the ground in Côte d’Ivoire are limited. Given the less tangible social dimensions that evade quantitative methods and unfold over time in complex ways, knowledge and methodological gaps remain. Using Comparative Historical Analysis (CHA), this study analyses social sustainability priorities, statuses, and gaps in the Ivorian cocoa sector, providing a contextual reflection of current social outcomes. Findings highlight underlying social structures that (a) show slow progress (e.g., weak infrastructure, disparities in access to basic services, especially in rural areas); (b) amplify (e.g., structural poverty magnified by demographic changes, power held by a few firms); and (c) erode (e.g., institutional decay dynamics). Analysis shows that structural factors that increase vulnerability in the Ivorian cocoa sector are not adequately addressed. Thus, cocoa producers are highly vulnerable to price shocks and production related risks, ultimately unable to achieve a decent standard of living. Addressing research and knowledge gaps while making complex social issues a more explicit part of the policy and practice agenda is crucial for successful long-term multi-sectoral and multi-actor planning.