Climate Change and Fragile States: A Growing Threat to Global Stability and Security

Jan 6, 2025 | Richmond Acheampong, Modern Ghana
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Climate change has become one of the most pressing global challenges, not only affecting ecosystems and economies but also influencing international relations, political stability and national security. With its broad and far-reaching impacts, climate change has the potential to exacerbate existing conflicts, instigate new ones and drive large-scale migration, particularly in fragile states. These states are often already grappling with political instability, weak governance structures and economic challenges. In these contexts, the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events, resource scarcity and shifting agricultural patterns, can worsen tensions, destabilize governments and fuel conflicts. In this piece, we will explore how climate change is contributing to international conflicts, migration and national security concerns, particularly in fragile states, by examining the link between climate-induced stress and instability, the role of resource scarcity in conflict, the impact of migration and the national security challenges posed by climate change.