PDCI work in Mexico and Argentina explore the impact of climate change and the adaptive capacities of society to resist and manage conflict. In this respect, governance plays a key role. PDCI together with its members in Argentina, Foundation Cambio Democratico, and Mexico, Centro de Colaboración Cívica, explored the linkages between climate change, conflict and fragility; the challenges of responding to climate change-related risks in ways which avoid violence; and the role of governance in managing and preventing conflict. The results of the studies provided understanding of how these complex and interlinked issues could be addressed and integrated into the policy and response mechanisms of local, national, regional and international institutions.
Through in-country research, dialogue and meetings, PDCI analyzed the implications of current and future climate impacts on security, in particular looking at the ability of governance structures and institutions to manage these changes. Based on research findings, partners intended to build knowledge, provide practical guidance, and support advocacy efforts around who can do what and how to promote peaceful responses to climate change risks and consequences.
The main findings of the study and the consultation processes were described in the research reports:
Key recommendations insist for strengthening local capacities to develop and implement adaptation and mitigation policies and for promotion of early-warning systems and policies for adapting to climate change, including a conflict-sensitive approach to environmental conflicts. In order to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of adaptation and mitigation policies, it is important to enhance interdisciplinary networking and social participation. It is also crucial to strengthen information systems and public access to information and raise awareness in the citizen about their potential to mitigate and adapt to climate change. It is necessary public institutions, technical experts and CSOs to cooperate in promoting reforms of the legal framework including the need for basic guidelines to address issues (water, land use, glaciers, renewable energy)