Environmental Crises and Development

Environmental crises are highly varied, both in their nature (whether they are man-made or natural disasters) as well as in the consequences they can have. As this report demonstrates, they affect the most fundamental resources of human life and well-being and thus, peacebuilding and statebuilding.  

Environmental crises can jeopardize peacebuilding efforts, either by being an additional trigger of violence or by being one of the primary sources of conflict. The management of both natural risks and resources highlights the importance of maintaining a sustainable society that does not generate scarcity nor conflict. Its potential to cause increased fragility and inequality make environmental concerns a priority for both civil society and governments. 

As a stakeholder in international development, CSPPS is determined to carry out its mission in a holistic way. Environmental challenges are becoming increasingly prominent and actively undermine our objectives of peace, security and prosperity, embedded in both the 2030 Agenda as well as the IDPS’ New Deal and 2019-21 Peace Vision. 

This report is the result of a collaboration between CSPPS member CSOs and the Secretariat and is threefold. The first part outlines the situations experienced by CSPPS members and is intended to explain the different gears binding conflicts, development issues and environmental challenges. It highlights cases in which the latter are primary sources of conflict, as well as cases in which they have a direct impact on development, and subsequently on potential conflicts. The second part aims to report the concerns, needs and constructive recommendations of CSPPS members to all the relevant stakeholders. Ultimately, the report is concluded with the guideline chosen by CSPPS to extend its future actions to environmental peacebuilding and conflict prevention efforts.