This article examines how climate change impacts security in the Lake Chad region, intensifying existing conflicts and livelihood challenges. It identifies four key climate-fragility risks and calls for integrating these risks into stabilization efforts. Based on extensive local conflict analysis, the findings aim to guide effective response strategies to enhance stability in the region.
The Lake Chad region is grappling with a humanitarian crisis intensified by both ongoing conflicts and climate change impacts. Increased temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns hinder the ability of local communities to maintain stable livelihoods, while simultaneous armed conflicts aggravate their vulnerability to climate risks. This article evaluates the intricate link between climate change and security challenges through a detailed assessment designed to inform potential responses in the region.
Lake Chad’s instability stems from a mix of political, environmental, and economic challenges exacerbated by climate change. The region’s shifting climate patterns directly affect agricultural and fishing capabilities—central to the local economy. This study employs a collaborative approach, incorporating insights from in-depth interviews with local populations across Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria, to explore how these interconnected risks play out in reality.
Addressing climate-related security risks is critical for stabilizing the Lake Chad region. The findings outline four primary climate-fragility risks: increased livelihood insecurity due to environmental changes, heightened vulnerability from conflict, resource conflicts stemming from scarcity, and the aggravation of recruitment into armed groups by livelihood insecurity. A comprehensive strategy must integrate climate risks into peace and stability initiatives.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
