The double punishment of populations living in regions in conflict: fighting against the effects of climate change
In regions plagued by conflict, populations often face a double whammy: not only do they have to deal with the devastating consequences of war, but they are also particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Countries like the Gaza Strip thus find themselves trapped in a precarious situation.
It is undeniable that countries at war are among the most exposed to the risks linked to climate change. According to the “Global Adaptation Initiative” of the University of Notre Dame, 14 of the 25 countries most exposed to climate change are currently in conflict, such as Yemen, Afghanistan, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Although the direct link between climate change and conflict is not clearly established, it is evident that countries at war are less prepared to deal with the consequences of global warming due to their internal divisions and instability. characterizes. In addition, climate change can aggravate tensions linked to access to limited resources.
According to international development expert Yvonne Su, “one problem exacerbates another.” In other words, if a region is exposed to the effects of global warming, populations may be forced to fight for available resources. This situation is particularly observed in regions such as the Gaza Strip, where the war has led to increased fragility of the population.
A report from the International Committee of the Red Cross highlights the cascading effects of war and climate change, which can ravage land and natural resources. For example, in the Central African Republic, population movements due to instability in neighboring regions have created new tensions between herders and farmers, who are now competing for the same land and resources. The authorities, formerly responsible for resolving these conflicts, no longer intervene in certain areas for security reasons, which further fuels the clashes.
Somalia, one of the countries most exposed to climate change, is also plagued by decades of conflict. Recurrent droughts have accentuated population displacements and land disputes, creating an explosive situation. According to the UN, armed conflict and climate change represent the two main threats to food security.
War has devastating consequences, particularly in countries producing or exporting essential raw materials. For example, the Russian invasion of Ukraine had a major impact on global wheat production, with the country considered the “breadbasket of Europe”.
It is therefore urgent to take into consideration the double pain experienced by populations in conflict regions, by providing them with adequate support to face both the consequences of war and the challenges of climate change. A holistic approach, emphasizing conflict resolution and adaptation to climate change, is needed to ensure the security and survival of these vulnerable populations.