The Need for Conflict-Sensitive Adaptation to Climate Change

Not only can activities for climate change mitigation and lowering vulnerability to climate change be seen as suitable approaches to avoid conflict. What has been ignored is the fact that these efforts could also aggravate existing conflicts or create new ones if not carefully designed. In their essay, "The Need for Conflict-Sensitive Adaptation to Climate Change", adelphi’s experts Dennis Tänzler and Alexander Carius are discussing the peace and conflict potentials against the backdrop of the international climate negotiations. The authors urge policymakers to think beyond national borders in order to more effectively address the transboundary impacts of climate change in conflict settings. A series of policy recommendations provides the aid and development communities with a potential blueprint for conflict-sensitive adaptation measures.