From climate conflicts to environmental peacebuilding

Exploring local dimensions

authored by

Natalia Dalmer, Jan Sändig, Anselm Vogler, Tobias Ide

Abstract

Environmental change and armed conflict are major challenges of the 21st century. Meanwhile, scholars and practitioners increasingly recognize the environment and natural resources as not only sources of conflict and violence but also as potential means for peacebuilding. While research on both fronts is rapidly progressing, the literature on the climate–conflict nexus and environmental peacebuilding has remained disconnected, although climate conflicts will (and already) require peacebuilding efforts. We address this gap by identifying overlaps that open opportunities for an integrated research agenda. Particularly, we call for a deeper exploration of the local dimensions of climate-related conflicts and environmental peacebuilding. Local actors, knowledge, networks, and identities shape peacebuilding outcomes and are key in building climate-resilient peace. However, romanticizing the local sphere might also mask significant inequalities, power differences, and ethical concerns.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Political Science

External Organisation(s)

University of Bayreuth
Institute of Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg
Murdoch University

Type

Article

Journal

Environment and Security

Volume

2

Pages

3-20

No. of pages

17

ISSN

2753-8796

Publication date

03.2024

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

Research Area (based on ÖFOS 2012)

Peace studies, Conflict research, International relations

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Electronic version(s)

https://doi.org/10.1177/27538796241231090 (Access: Open)