Warming has been the ultimate threat multiplier’ in fragile countries,fuelling clash and extremism. We must build resilience, and with it a climate of peace In Paris this week, or world leaders are working to agree a robust climate deal to curb greenhouse gas emissions. They are also grappling with how to tackle the pervasive threat of terrorism. The aim in both cases is to safeguard the right of current and future generations to live safe,secure and fulfilled lives. The fact that the climate conference is taking station in Paris grimly underscores this duality. But it isn’t simply that tackling climate change and insecurity are parallel challenges. They are linked risks that need to be met with linked responses. Even whether we derive the best possible global agreement to cut emissions in Paris, the effects of warming already in the system will play out for at least the next two decades, and with an impact on clash,security and fragility. Climate change plays a role in the ongoing political conflicts in Darfur and Mali, and in food insecurity across the Sahel. Climate change has also complicated conflicts linked to the Arab spring, and most notably in Syria. Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com