The relationship between climate change and deadly conflict is complex and context-specific, but it is undeniable that climate change is a threat multiplier that is already increasing food insecurity, water scarcity and resource competition, while disrupting livelihoods and spurring migration. In turn, deadly conflict and political instability are contributing to climate change – including through illegal logging.
As this introductory video lays out, Crisis Group’s work on climate change and conflict relies on field-based research and analysis to provide insights into how policymakers might best influence and respond to these complex changes to mitigate conflict risks.
Organised crime has infiltrated the Amazon basin, seeking land for growing coca, rivers for drug trafficking and veins of gold underground. These groups are endangering the rainforest and the safety of those attempting to defend it. It is imperative that regional governments take protective measures.
The International Crisis Group’s Solutions Lab hosted a year-long series of virtual convenings on the geopolitics of climate change and conflict, in partnership with Stiftung Mercator. This summary highlights key insights and recommendations from the three expert roundtables.
In the run-up to and during COP28, Crisis Group experts contribute their views on how climate change shapes the conflicts and crises they work on.
On 30 November, delegates gathered for the 28th iteration of the UN Climate Conference, where peace and security will be included on the thematic agenda for the first time. In this Q&A, Crisis Group expert Andrew Ciacci explains the significance of this step.
This week on The Horn, Alan hosts a roundtable discussion with Saliem Fakir, Robert Muthami, and Crisis Group expert Nazanine Moshiri to discuss what’s at stake for African countries at the COP28 climate summit.
Surviving the impact of climate change and adapting to harsher new environments are collective tasks that need the cooperation of all countries, even Afghanistan under the outcast Taliban regime.
‘Conflict isn't merely a side issue; it is an integral part of the equation.’
On 8 and 9 August, the presidents of eight countries will meet in Brazil to discuss means of countering the threats facing the Amazon rainforest. In this Q&A, Crisis Group expert Bram Ebus explains that inter-governmental cooperation and a regional security strategy will be essential.
A series of failed rainy seasons in northern Kenya has sharpened competition among herders, farmers and conservancy owners for land and water, often resulting in bloodshed. Authorities should redouble aid to hard-hit areas and, with donor support, look for ways to encourage sharing of resources.
I’m optimistic about renewables and pessimistic about everything else … it is hard to be positive when emissions are continuing unabated.
North-South conversation at COP was never going to be easy, but the timing and severity of the [Gaza] war … could distract attention from vital issues.
[At COP28] African negotiators are grappling with how to ensure that climate diplomacy is shielded from the many wars and economic distractions going on.
It is crucial that politicians and diplomats do not let the crisis in the Middle East distract them from the longer-term risks of climate change.
No matter what happens next, the disruption wrought by Russia’s invasion will keep commodity prices high for the year.
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