New Youth Research on Climate and Conflict
The Kofi Annan Foundation, together with SIPRI has released a report based on work from youth researchers that explores how young people face the devastating effects of climate change and environmental degradation.
“The convergence of climate change, environmental degradation and conflict poses a significant threat to peace and stability worldwide, particularly in fragile and conflict affected countries. Young people in these areas are disproportionately affected, yet they are also uniquely positioned to drive transformative solutions”, writes the Kofi Annan Foundation in the release of their latest report.
The report, produced together with the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and supported by the GCF explores the intersection of climate change, conflict and youth resilience. Young leaders ran research teams in six countries that are particularly vulnerable to climate change and conflicts. The research and interviews they conducted highlight how climate change and environmental degradation exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, such as resource scarcity, governance failures, and recruitment into armed groups.
Recommendations from the report
The report identifies key recommendations for stakeholders. Including Governments, State Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, Development Partners, and Donors.
- Rethinking Decision-Making and Accountability Mechanisms
- Strengthening Gender-Responsive Adaptation
- Encouraging Sustainable and Peace-Sensitive Finance
- Supporting Communities Through Training and Skills Development
- Delivering Climate- and Peace-Sensitive Emergency Relief
For a complete list of recommendations, refer to pages 28–36 of the full report.
The Researchers
The research was conducted by young leaders from the Kofi Annan Foundation’s Extremely Together network, with country-specific insights provided by local organisations, including Cercle Dev in Niger, Elman Peace in Somalia, HIVE in Pakistan, KRIS for Peace in the Philippines, Suudu Andal in Burkina Faso, and the Uganda Muslim Youth Development Forum (UMYDF).
The Kofi Annan Foundation
The Kofi Annan Foundation is an independent non-profit organisation established in Switzerland in 2007 by the late former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. It is committed to building peaceful, democratic, and resilient societies. The Foundation focuses on promoting peace, empowering youth, strengthening democracy, and fostering international cooperation.