Climate change is one of the greatest global challenges of the 21st century and increasingly threatens peace and international security. Rising temperatures or droughts can, among other things, lead to fluctuating food prices, intensify competition for natural resources, or make livelihoods more precarious and displace people. Climate change acts as a risk multiplier, meaning that it can exacerbate existing political, social, economic and ecological stress factors.

Climate change, peace and security is one of Switzerland’s priorities during its term on the UN Security Council in 2023-2024. To contribute to the evidence on specific topics, a series of dialogues has been initiated with the aim of developing policy recommendations and proposals for solutions to the UNSC and the broader UN System. A first dialogue in Geneva, which brought together experts and representatives from several states, focused on the impact of climate change on conflict and displacement. A second event in Addis Ababa will explore the link between climate change, conflict and food security in the African context and examine possible cooperation between the UN and the African Union.

Contact person and email:

Yvan Keckeis, yvan.keckeis@eda.admin.ch

Return to the Climate for Peace homepage