The State Of Climate And Security: An Overview
Austria Ministry of Defence
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Abstract: This chapter explores climate security as a complex global challenge, examining how environmental stressors intersect with conflict drivers. Using six analytical pathways?resource competition, livelihood risks, food volatility, maladaptive responses, extreme weather, and unintended policy impacts?it links climate change to rising insecurity in fragile contexts. Empirical case studies from conflict-prone regions highlight how climate amplifies vulnerabilities and disrupts governance. The authors discuss institutional approaches from the UN, OSCE, EU, and African Union in mainstreaming climate into peacebuilding agendas. They call for cross-sectoral collaboration, adaptive policy design, and integration of climate risk analysis in foreign policy and development programs. The study contributes frameworks for anticipating compound risks, prioritizing early warning systems, and embedding climate dimensions in diplomatic strategies. It recommends ecosystem-based conflict resolution, regional cooperation, and inclusive development models. This work is critical for policy practitioners designing resilience strategies in fragile environments experiencing climate disruption.