Building a Climate for Peace: Climate Security in South Asia

Climate uncertainty, when thrown into the mix of South Asia’s vast and varied geography, rich biodiversity, and complex socio-economic makeup, leads to an interconnected web of risks for the region. Despite its many commonalities, South Asia remains one of the least integrated regions in the world. This report builds on existing knowledge and expertise to bring in new perspectives, connect seemingly disparate issues and offer actionable ideas in a region that has been disconnected for far too long.

This report presents climate security risks faced by South Asia and an overview of the current policy landscape. Using four future climate fragility risk scenarios on water, ecosystems and territories, non-economic loss and damage, and human migration and displacement, the report illustrates the interconnectedness of these risks. Finally, it considers possible avenues for future policy initiatives, arguing for reinvigorating regional institutions, building cooperation and trust through disaster risk management, and unifying a regional voice in global multilateral mechanisms.

A collaboration by adelphi and Kubernein Initiative, the report and its recommendations are a culmination of an intensive process of desk research, expert interviews as well as a virtual and in-person consultative workshop.