Briefer published by the Council on Strategic Risks, 13 August, 2026

Climate security risks and the African Union

  • africa
  • climate policy
  • climate security
  • Climate Risk
While responsible for only 4% of global carbon dioxide emissions, 57% of the countries in Africa are facing the highest burden of climate exposure. Two reports by SIPRI are outlining the policy status of climate security risks in the African Union and recommending advancing the understanding and response to climate-related security risks in the AU.
Growing consensus exists regarding the interlinkages between climate change and conflict. Rather than further exploring this relationship, Mercy Corps identified strategies and interventions to address conflict-climate dynamics in their latest report. Read their findings, challenges and recommendations.
Unforeseen impacts of geoengineering technologies may threaten international security. These technologies aim to make changes in the atmosphere to lower the earth's warming. The Conflict and Environment Observatory (CEOBS) explores some of these “promising solutions” and discusses the potentials and risks of geoengineering.

Webinar: Water Security in the Middle East

  • Watersecurity
  • middle east
  • webinar
On Monday, 4 May (15.00 -17.00 AMS), EuroMeSco is organising an online webinar to present its new study 'Ensuring Water Security in the Middle East: Policy Implications'. EuroMeSco will analyse the impact of securitisation and COVID-19 on policymakers and water security in the region. Click for registration.

Sustainable energy to improve human security in refugee settlements

  • energy transition
  • development
  • environment peacebuilding
Most refugees and displaced persons depend on unsustainable energy resources that pose risks to their security and health. Read more about the positive role sustainable energy can play in refugee settlements. Four case studies from Iraq and Ethiopia by IRENA and UNHCR.

Climate as slow motion version of Corona? UN Security Council debate on climate-security

  • climate security
  • Climate-Related Security Risks
  • UN
In a so-called Arria formula, which is meant to informally debate about an issue, UN Security Council members once again discussed the climate-security nexus. The debate was organised online by France and others and broadcasted live on Facebook. States ambassadors shared their insights on the security risks posed by climate change and stressed the link to COVID-19 pandemic.