Environment, climate and peacemaking

Climate change and environmental degradation act as threat multipliers, fuelling competition over resources, deepening fragility, and worsening conflict dynamics. Armed conflict in turn impedes effective climate action.

When done right, mediation can play a key role in addressing these challenges, achieving outcomes that are positive for peace, while advancing effective climate action, environmental protection and conservation in conflict areas.

This is why HD created a dedicated climate and environment team within the Mediation Support and Policy Directorate. It provides technical advice to HD country teams, builds partnerships, and informs emerging practice in areas such as environmental peacemaking, climate change adaptation through dialogue, and the link between conservation and mediation.

HD has integrated climate and environment considerations in its operations. Notable examples include:

• Supporting conservation actors in managing protected areas in zones affected by conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Networks of local mediators in the Sahel to resolve conflicts fuelled by tensions around natural resources.
• Community dialogues in Nigeria’s Middle Belt to ensure the sustainable management of shared natural resources and adaptation to climate change.
• Dialogue platforms for states in Asia to promote cooperative fisheries management, reduce conflict risks, and avert a collapse in fish stocks.