From Rising Temperatures to Rising Tensions

Vicious Cycles of Climate and Conflict: Norway’s Role in Addressing Climate-Related Insecurity.

Global temperatures are rising, disrupting weather patterns, altering ecosystems, and worsening environmental damage. This, combined with other factors, is increasing the risk of conflict by making vulnerable areas even more fragile and undermining peace and security. Efforts to adapt to or mitigate climate change can also backfire, increasing social tensions and weakening communities. The impact of armed conflict on the environment is also growing as the number of conflicts increases worldwide.

This has led to greater international focus on the link between climate change, peace, and security. Institutions like NATO, the UN, the African Union, and the EU are now recognizing how climate change affects stability and security. Norway has been a leader in this area, making climate, peace, and security a top priority during its time on the UN Security Council (2021-2022).

The panel will bring together experts from policy, research, and diplomacy to discuss issues like the environmental impact of conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, the effects of climate change on peace in the Nordic, Arctic, and Baltic regions, and how Norway is addressing climate-related insecurity.