Information Challenges for Humanitarian Response to Climate Shocks in Fragile Settings

Oct 21, 2022 | Anniek Barnhoorn and Karen Meijer
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As climate change intensifies, humanitarian organizations and their field operations will need a better understanding of how it interacts with conflict and displacement dynamics, as well as its broader societal impacts. And to operationalize this knowledge, they will also need accurate and timely information related to climate, weather and natural resources. 

Early-warning systems, and resource-governance and dispute-resolution mechanisms that are considered fair and effective by local communities, can help to minimize the social consequences of climate extremes. However, such systems and mechanisms are often absent in fragile settings.

Reliable information about local climate change impacts and natural resources can support humanitarian actors in their operations. Having trusted connections and framework agreements in place with major information providers will make it easier to quickly decide on an assignment to provide information in support of a humanitarian response.