The need for a ‘peace continuum’ approach to climate security

Climate change is a priority area in European and broader Western initiatives for global security, with a significant focus on Africa.

This DIIS Working Paper argues that advancing the climate security agenda requires approaches that integrate climate adaptation and finance into a ‘peace continuum’, spanning prevention, peacebuilding, and development. The paper shows where the current climate security-agenda falls short, in particular regarding climate finance and the prioritisation of conflict-affected contexts. It asserts that addressing these gaps is essential both for climate justice and for fostering partnerships in Africa amid growing global geopolitical competition.

Drawing on insights from Africa’s Horn, the paper also discusses concrete opportunities for advancing a ‘peace continuum' approach to climate security. Specifically, it underscores the importance of strategic engagement and accessible, conflict-sensitive climate finance, notwithstanding challenges posed by institutional fragmentation and conflict. Recommendations are supported by examples of UN, AU and IGAD initiatives and case studies from Somalia and Somaliland.

Link to other relevant articles/publications:
https://toda.org/policy-briefs-and-resources/policy-briefs/collaboration-conflict-and-mobility-local-responses-to-climate-change-in-somaliland.html

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462901123002460

Link to Danida project, mentioned in the paper:
https://forskning.ruc.dk/da/projects/pastoralist-climate-change-resilience-in-somaliland-2