Climate crisis and natural resource management

The relationship between climate and conflict is complex. Climate extremes and variability are threatening the livelihoods, food security, health and wellbeing of millions of people worldwide, with those living in fragile and conflict-affected states disproportionately affected.

These same states are most likely to have weak governance and institutions and high levels of social and economic inequality, leaving them ill-equipped to deal with the impacts of climate change. This can create or exacerbate community tensions and fragility with the potential to lead to violent conflict.

Competition over natural resources – including land, forests and water – is a major driver of conflict, particularly in fragile states. Systematic, fair, inclusive and responsive natural resource governance is therefore vital to effective climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts and integral to preventing conflict.

For over 15 years, Alert has brought together communities, authorities and businesses to design effective and conflict-sensitive management solutions for natural resources. From Myanmar to Mali, we bring conflicting parties together to build trust and relationships through dialogue, with a focus on designing gender-inclusive processes. Our pioneering research has shown the ways in which climate change and conflict are linked. Our work at the local, sub-national and national levels recognises that system change lies at the core of addressing climate and conflict risks. By partnering with those working on climate change mitigation and adaptation interventions, we can ensure these programmes are not only sensitive to their impact on conflict, but actively contribute to building positive peace.

Water, Peace and Security: Tackling water and conflict risks

Climate change is worsening conflicts over water and land. But communities are collaborating through the Water, Peace and Security partnership, to create sustainable solutions without violence. Our impact story series shares stories from Kenya and Mali.

Goats are herded at the Koroli springs in the Chalbi desert near Kenya's northern border with Ethiopia.

Featured insight

From diagnosis to action: Five lessons for addressing climate security risks

This learning note outlines five critical steps to addressing climate security risks based on more than 15 years of programming by International Alert.