NATO Science Programme highlights the human and national security dynamics of climate change
From 28 to 30 April, over 30 experts and scientists from NATO, Partner and Mediterranean Dialogue countries will gather in Dubrovnik, Croatia to define the intricate relationships between climate change, human health and national security.
The NATO-funded workshop will aim to develop a better understanding of the interrelationships between these major global issues as well as defining areas of future research.
Climate change is an increasingly important issue affecting the world today. The reasons for the rise in global temperatures are not clear. However, what is even more difficult to ascertain is the possible impact of climate change on the economy, human health and security of the nation state.
The recent report of the High Representative and European Commission on “Climate Change and International Security” (EU 2008) addresses the existence of a European Security Strategy as well as the link between global warming and the competition for natural resources. It also outlines the unique ability of the European Community to respond to the security risks associated with climate change. Furthermore, in a June 2008 speech addressing the future of NATO, the then Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer called for NATO to prepare for a period of global insecurity caused by climate change.
Institutes involved in the event include the University of Notre Dame (USA) and the University of Zagreb (Croatia).
This workshop is funded through NATO’s Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme. For more information, visit www.nato.int/science (see “Calendar” for organisers’ contact details).