States and Nature: The Effects of Climate Change on Security

Climate change can lead to negative security outcomes due to state capacity, political exclusion, and international assistance. This argument is demonstrated through case studies from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 356 pages
Publication date: 24 March 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Climate change has become a significant concern in recent years, with its potential to lead to negative security outcomes. While much progress has been made in understanding the relationship between climate change and security, there is still a lack of clarity regarding why some regions are more vulnerable to these impacts than others. In this book, Dr. Busby develops a novel argument that combines state capacity, political exclusion, and international assistance to explain why climate leads to particularly bad security outcomes in some places but not others.

The argument is demonstrated through application to case studies from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, which provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics that contribute to climate-related security risks. The book will be an informative resource for students and scholars of international relations and environmental studies, particularly those working on security, conflict, and climate change. It identifies where policy and research should be headed to address these challenges and promote sustainable development.

One of the key insights of the book is that state capacity plays a critical role in determining how vulnerable a region is to climate-related security risks. Countries with weak state institutions, limited resources, and poor governance are more likely to experience conflict and humanitarian emergencies as a result of climate change. This is because they are less able to respond to the needs of their populations, manage natural resources, and prevent the spread of disease.

Political exclusion is another factor that contributes to climate-related security risks. Marginalized communities, such as indigenous peoples, women, and children, are often excluded from decision-making processes that affect their lives and livelihoods. This can lead to resentment and frustration, which can escalate into violence and conflict. When these communities are unable to adapt to the impacts of climate change, they are more likely to be displaced and become vulnerable to human rights abuses.

International assistance is also crucial in addressing climate-related security risks. However, the distribution of aid is often unequal, with developed countries receiving the majority of the resources. This can create resentment and frustration among developing countries, which can lead to political instability and conflict. Additionally, aid can be misused or wasted, further exacerbating the security challenges faced by vulnerable communities.

To mitigate the negative security outcomes of climate change, there are several steps that can be taken. First and foremost, countries must invest in building strong state institutions that can effectively manage natural resources, respond to emergencies, and promote social and economic development. This requires a commitment to political reform, economic development, and social inclusion.

Political exclusion must also be addressed. Marginalized communities must be included in decision-making processes that affect their lives and livelihoods, and their rights must be protected. This can be achieved through the promotion of gender equality, the protection of indigenous peoples' rights, and the empowerment of women and children.

International assistance must be distributed more equitably and efficiently. Developed countries must provide support to developing countries to help them adapt to the impacts of climate change and build resilience. This can include funding for climate change mitigation and adaptation projects, technical assistance, and capacity-building programs.

In conclusion, climate change has the potential to lead to negative security outcomes in some regions. However, by understanding the factors that contribute to these risks and taking steps to address them, we can promote sustainable development and reduce the vulnerability of vulnerable communities. This requires a commitment to building strong state institutions, promoting political inclusion, and distributing international assistance more equitably.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108958462