Responding to the Joint Challenges of Conflict and Climate Change (FF #115)

This 115th edition of Facty Friday launches October’s focus on DRG and climate.

Conflict Mitigation Increases Climate Change Resilience 

Too often we consider the relationship between climate change and conflict to move in one direction: climate change increases conflict risk. But, the reverse is also true, conflict increases climate change vulnerability. When conflict breaks out, it can disrupt markets; destroy crops and other assets, and weaken governance systems that are key for climate resilience. Mitigating conflict helps address these vulnerabilities by creating opportunities to better manage climate risks and avoid maladaptive responses. This relationship, conflict as a driver of climate change vulnerability, underscores the importance of programmatic and analytical efforts such as violence and conflict assessments (VCAs), environmental peacebuilding, and resource governance that actively consider the reinforcing nature of climate change resilience and peace. 

Addressing Climate Change Vulnerability in Areas Beyond Government Control

Collectively, the areas outside of government control represent many of the most climate vulnerable places on earth. Conflict often results in increased program costs, extended timelines, disruption of activities, and much higher security risks - a challenge for development donors and implementers. However, examples of climate action and disaster risk reduction provide evidence that reaching and supporting communities in these areas is possible. Yet they also present unique opportunities for adaptation and resilience with appropriate contextual understanding. The authors of this publication provide a framework for assessing the viability of different types of adaptation programs depending on the specific governance contexts.

Got a study we should share for Facty Friday? Email drg.el@usaid.gov!