Climate change poses significant challenges to peace in West Africa, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and contributing to conflicts in the region. Variability in rainfall patterns, increased frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods, rising temperatures, and sea-level rise significantly impact livelihoods, food security, and access to resources. These environmental stressors often intensify competition for land, water, and other essential resources, leading to tensions and conflicts among particularly in agrarian communities. In addition, climate-induced displacement and migration further strain resources and heighten socio-economic tensions, potentially escalating conflicts.

Through its environmental protection theme, GACRB:

1. Implement strategies for sustainable resource management, agricultural practices, and disaster risk reduction to mitigate conflicts arising from resource scarcity.

2. Integrate conflict sensitivity into climate adaptation initiatives that aim to address the root causes of climate-induced conflicts.

3. Advocate for policies that promote environmental peacebuilding such as equitable access to natural resources, strengthened environmental governance, and fostering cooperation among communities to manage shared resources sustainably.

4. Conduct educational campaigns and awareness programmes aim to inform communities, policymakers, and stakeholders about the interlinkages between environmental degradation, climate change, and conflicts.

5. Provide capacity-building support to local communities and stakeholders in conflict-sensitive environmental management.