Green transition drives conflict, future disputes
Date
7/17/2024 5:23:48 AM
(MENAFN) It's increasingly evident that climate change is not only a driver of conflict but also a potential source of future disputes, especially as efforts to transition to cleaner energy may inadvertently exacerbate tensions. The 2018 Yellow Vest protests in France, for instance, saw minimal violence, yet the pushback from conservative and far-right factions against green policies underscores how climate issues can become flashpoints in cultural and Political divides, potentially fueling extremism and violence.
Looking beyond Western Europe and North America, the impact of climate-related disasters in already vulnerable regions is profound. Countries heavily reliant on fossil fuels face significant challenges as they shift towards renewable energy sources. These nations often depend on oil revenues to sustain their economies, provide essential services, and maintain security, creating a fragile social contract. Disruptions to this contract could escalate into insurgencies, sectarian conflicts, and bolster recruitment by extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS, while governments may respond with forceful crackdowns.
Moreover, the transition away from fossil fuels introduces new complexities. Regions rich in minerals crucial for renewable technologies, such as cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo, face a "resource curse." Here, mining operations are marred by violence as armed groups vie for control, exploiting these resources to perpetuate conflict under harsh conditions.
In essence, while efforts to combat climate change are critical, they must navigate these intricate geopolitical and social dynamics to mitigate unintended consequences and promote sustainable global development.
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