Climate Change

Just Security’s expert authors offer in-depth analysis of the legal, security, diplomatic, and human rights dimensions of climate change. Articles span topics related to international agreements, climate-related displacement, the national security risks of climate change, and climate litigation in international, regional, and domestic courts and tribunals.

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167 Articles
People walk along the streets near the remains of burned homes after Hurricane Sandy on October 31, 2012 in the Breezy Point neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. Nearly all the homes in the photo covering three of four blocks have been destroyed, and all that can been seen is the building foundations and debris.

As Biden Seeks Answers on Climate’s Impact on Migration, Sydney Declaration Provides Legal Ground Rules for Action

As the United States embarks on its own analysis of displacement and migration in the context of climate change, the Sydney Declaration provides the legal ground rules for action.
Tents line up the semi-arid plains outside the official boundaries of Dadaab, which is considered to be the worlds biggest refugee camp in the world, on July 4, 2011.

Climate Change is a Threat the Next Generation Cannot Face Alone

It is hard to be optimistic about the future of security with the crises pummeling the world today. As members of the rising generation in national security policy, we recognize…
US Secretary of State John Kerry and Norwegian Foreign Minister Borge Brende tour Ny-Alesund Village, the northernmost civilian settlement in the world, before visiting Blomstrand Glacier, on June 16, 2016, in Ny-Alesund, Norway.

Climate Change as a National Security and Foreign Policy Priority: Opportunities and Challenges for the Next Administration

Policy recommendations to enhance the Biden-Harris administration’s ability to play a constructive role in addressing climate change as part of the United States’ defense,…
A military police officer walks near a destroyed gate in Tyndall Air Force Base, in Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael on October 12, 2018. Rubble from the gate covers the floor. The two guard booths on either side of the former gate appear damaged, but are still standing.

Climate Change, National Security, & the New Commander-in-Chief

What are the president’s authorities as commander-in-chief to “combat” the national security threats posed by the climate crisis?
Three people walk and talk along a tree and grass-lined path at the Yuzhnoukrainska Nuclear Power Plant on June 19, 2018. One of the power plant’s cylindrical towers is covered in a sculptural art piece. The 3rd unit of Yuzhnoukrainsa Nuclear Power Plant is the first one in Ukraine loaded with a full core of nuclear fuel delivered by the Westinghouse Electric Company (USA).

Trump’s Impact on Nuclear Proliferation

On the need to review Trump associates' secret bargaining in nuclear energy sector. Not just a question of accountability. But of continuing vulnerabilities in national security.
The International Criminal Court's prosecutor Fatou Bensouda gives a press conference in Sudan's capital Khartoum on October 20, 2020, at the conclusion of her five-day visit to the country.

National Security This Week at the United Nations (Oct 30-Nov 6)

 “Unwavering Support” for ICC Amid U.S. Sanctions  72 countries at the U.N. on Monday offered their “unwavering support” for the International Criminal Court…
A sign warning people about Covid-19 is surrounded by flames and smoke during the Hennessey fire near Lake Berryessa in Napa, California on August 18, 2020.

An Age of Actorless Threats: Rethinking National Security in Light of COVID and Climate

Climate change and the COVID pandemic are highlighting key weaknesses in U.S. national security strategy and policy.
People gather on the airport runway in Funafuti, Tuvalu runway on November 25, 2019. Their reflections and the sky can be seen in the standing water nearby.

An Australian Model to Address Climate-Related Displacement: How to Flatten the Curve

Disasters don’t just destroy homes, businesses, and livelihoods. They can create significant economic and social disruption, which affects long-term prosperity, stability, and…
Democratic presidential nominee, former US Vice President Joe Biden (R), and vice presidential running mate, US Senator Kamala Harris, sign required documents for receiving the Democratic nomination for President and Vice President, in Wilmington, Delaware, on August 14, 2020.

Reengaging on Treaties and Other International Agreements (Part II): A Path Forward

If Biden is elected and becomes president in January 2021, what can he do to rejoin international agreements from which Trump has withdrawn the United States?
People clap for Trump in the Rose Garden on June 1, 2017 after announcing the US will pull out of the Paris climate agreement.

Reengaging on Treaties and Other International Agreements (Part I): President Donald Trump’s Rejection of International Law

If Joe Biden defeats President Donald Trump, he will face the question of how to revive U.S. participation on the international stage, including through rejoining many of the international…
World flags in front of the United Nations building

National Security at the United Nations This Week

Editor’s Note: This is the latest in Just Security’s weekly series keeping readers up to date on developments at the United Nations at the intersection of national security,…
UN Special Envoy to Syria Geir Pedersen (C), Syrian MP Ahmad Al-Kuzbari (L) and Opposition Syrian Negotiations Commission Hadi Al-Bahra attends a ceremony to mark the opening of a meeting of the Syria constitution-writing committee on October 30, 2019 at the United Nations Offices in Geneva.

National Security at the United Nations This Week

Editor’s Note: This is the latest in Just Security’s weekly series keeping readers up to date on developments at the United Nations at the intersection of national security,…
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