“Adapting to Climate Change in Conflict Zones: How Funds are Making a Difference”
In recent years, conflicts have been on the rise globally, coinciding with a decade of record high temperatures. According to the Peace Research Institute Oslo, 59 conflicts were recorded in 2023, the highest number since the end of the Second World War. Despite the prevalence of conflict, the Adaptation Fund has been working on successful climate projects in fragile states and conflict-affected countries.
The Adaptation Fund has invested $1.2 billion across 180 projects worldwide, some of which are located in areas of potential conflict. Projects in countries like Mali, where wars have been ongoing for years, and regions vulnerable to floods and droughts, such as the Volta Basin in West Africa, have shown the importance of quick response and adaptation in different contexts.
One such case study is a climate-smart agriculture project in Ethiopia, aimed at increasing resilience in drought-prone districts. Despite facing challenges due to conflict in the region of Tigray, the project focused on strengthening institutional capacity and increasing local awareness and ownership over adaptation activities in other districts. This led to successful engagement with local communities, providing training on new water facilities and reducing water stress in affected areas.
The success of these interventions has shown the potential of climate adaptation projects to reduce conflict and fragility in regions where climate change is exacerbating tensions over resources. The Adaptation Fund’s research emphasizes the importance of strengthening institutions, ensuring local ownership of finance, flexibility in climate funding, building partnerships, and close monitoring for successful outcomes in conflict zones.
Working in conflict-affected countries requires a different mindset and approach to achieve positive results. Building trust with communities and engaging them in the design and implementation of projects is crucial. Flexibility to adapt to rapidly changing situations and community ownership over projects are key factors in navigating conflict zones successfully.
As conflicts continue to put pressure on local populations struggling with worsening climate extremes, the lessons learned from projects like the one in Ethiopia can be applied elsewhere. It is essential to ensure financing is available to support communities in conflict zones and let them know they will not be abandoned in the face of the climate crisis.
Overall, the Adaptation Fund’s work in conflict-affected areas highlights the importance of resilience, flexibility, and community engagement in addressing the dual challenges of climate change and conflict. By learning from successful projects and applying these lessons globally, we can work towards a more sustainable and peaceful future.