Understanding the Climate-Security Nexus
Climate change poses an undeniable threat to international peace and security. As the effects of global warming intensify, leading to more frequent and severe weather events, droughts, floods, and resource scarcity, communities around the world are facing growing challenges that heighten the risk of conflict and displacement.
The relationship between climate change and security is complex, often intersecting with political, social, economic, and demographic factors. In regions already vulnerable to instability, the cascading impacts of climate change can exacerbate existing grievances, disrupt livelihoods, and increase competition for diminishing natural resources like land, forage, and water. This dynamic is evident in many conflict-affected areas, from the Sahel and Horn of Africa to the Lake Chad Basin.
“Climate change exacerbates threats to human security and war damages nature and the environment in numerous ways, from the destruction of dams to attacks on oil pipelines and agricultural land that sustains rural communities.” – Juan Manuel Santos Calderón, President of Colombia and Nobel Peace Prize laureate
For example, in the Sahel region, climate change has heightened competition for dwindling land, forage, and water resources, fueling tensions between herders and farmers. In Somalia, more frequent and prolonged droughts have contributed to the displacement of over 2.6 million people, driving up local tensions and increasing the risk of human trafficking, child exploitation, and recruitment by armed groups. Similarly, in the Lake Chad Basin, climate change’s impact on rainfall patterns has impeded traditional livelihoods, compounding socioeconomic exclusion and reducing the opportunity costs of joining armed groups.
Integrating Climate Considerations into Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding
Recognizing the growing threat posed by climate change, the United Nations is working to mitigate security risks in tandem with its efforts to address the climate crisis. Across the Department of Peacebuilding and Political Affairs and the Department of Peace Operations, there is a concerted effort to integrate climate considerations into their work.
The establishment of the Climate Security Mechanism, a joint initiative between these departments, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has been a game-changer. This mechanism provides multidisciplinary support to Member States, regional organizations, and UN entities to better understand the linkages between climate, peace, and security.
“Considering climate change in all that we do, as also requested by this Council in a number of instances, is no longer a choice.” – Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations
One of the key priorities is building the capacity of UN peace operations to anticipate and address climate-related security risks. The deployment of dedicated climate, peace, and security capacities in a growing number of field missions has strengthened their ability to implement mandates effectively. These experts help missions understand how climate trends are shaping the local context and identify emerging good practices to manage associated risks.
Innovations in data collection and analysis, such as the use of satellite imagery and machine learning, are also enhancing early warning capabilities. This helps missions better anticipate climate-related security challenges and develop tailored responses.
Leveraging Climate Action for Peacebuilding
Beyond strengthening risk assessment and early warning, the UN is exploring how climate action can open new entry points for dialogue, build confidence among parties, and help ensure the longer-term viability of peace agreements. Technical cooperation on climate change mitigation and adaptation can serve as a platform for conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
The Peacebuilding Fund, for instance, has been a crucial catalyst, investing in over 70 climate-informed peacebuilding projects in the past five years. In Yemen, the Fund increased natural resource access and reduced intercommunal tensions by taking an innovative approach to women’s inclusion in local water management and dispute resolution.
“Peace can only be maintained if the very forests, soils and rivers that communities depend on are protected and managed sustainably.” – Juan Manuel Santos Calderón
Aligning peacebuilding and climate finance mechanisms can optimize the use of limited resources and generate co-benefits for conflict-affected communities. The UN is also working to introduce renewable energy solutions in peace operations, reducing their environmental footprint while enhancing mission resilience.
Strengthening Partnerships and Amplifying Local Voices
Addressing the climate-security nexus requires a collective response, with the UN playing a key coordinating role. Strengthening partnerships with host governments, development actors, and the private sector is crucial to securing the necessary support and resources.
Equally important is ensuring that the perspectives and leadership of those most affected by climate change and conflict are amplified. Women, youth, and local communities possess invaluable knowledge and innovative solutions, yet their roles are often overlooked.
“People bear the brunt of conflicts and the climate crisis, yet they are also at the centre of adaptation, creation and innovation.” – Salma Kadry, Climate, Peace and Security Expert
Investing in the capacity of women and young people as agents of change in climate action and peacebuilding is critical. This not only enhances the effectiveness of interventions but also promotes more inclusive and sustainable solutions.
A Call to Action: Mobilizing Resources and Political Will
Despite the growing recognition of the climate-security threat, the international community’s response has been insufficient, hampered by the unprecedented scale and complexity of the challenge. Overcoming this will require a transformative shift in institutions, considerable investment, focused leadership, and a true dedication to cooperative action.
At the upcoming 2023 United Arab Emirates COP28, the “Relief, Recovery and Peace” Day will provide a crucial platform to highlight the intersection of climate change, peace, and security. This is a critical opportunity to mobilize greater resources and political will to address this existential threat.
“The decisive decade is now. Countries need to use existing tools and technology to reduce carbon emissions and recommit themselves to the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” – John Kerry, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate Change of the United States
Ultimately, securing a sustainable and peaceful future for all will depend on our collective ability to integrate climate considerations into conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding efforts. By leveraging science, technology, and the expertise of diverse stakeholders, we can build more climate-resilient communities and break the cycle of climate-induced displacement and conflict.
Joint Action for Water remains committed to supporting this critical agenda, working with partners to amplify local voices, share best practices, and advocate for the bold action needed to address the climate-security nexus.
