Series Introduction
Climate-induced Security Challenges
Climate change – e.g., rising temperatures, rising sea levels, more frequent and intense extreme weather events – not only aggravates existing vulnerabilities such as food and water insecurity but can also lead to heightened competition over diminishing natural resources, widespread displacement, increased societal tensions and conflict.
While science has been unequivocal about the physical impacts of climate change, scientific evidence to support its link to security risks is tenuous. Understanding climate-induced security challenges is crucial, particularly for countries most exposed to climate change impacts. By providing evidence-based perspectives to improve our understanding of climate-induced security risks, this Insight series aims to generate insights that support crafting strategies to mitigate such risks.
CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL INSIGHT
Jordan, one of the world’s most water-scarce nations, faces an increasingly precarious water security situation exacerbated by climate change, which is reducing water availability. This challenge is compounded by increasing water consumption rates, which are due to population growth and the sustained influx of refugees from conflict zones in neighbouring countries, as well as significant agricultural demands. These pressures are exacerbated by Israel’s water practices, as well as its weaponisation of water. Together, these factors contribute to an already volatile dynamic between Jordan and Israel, raising the potential for escalating tensions – and possibly conflict – over this critical resource.
Image Caption: An aerial view of the Jordan River flowing along the border between Jordan (background) and Israel, south of Lake Tiberias or Sea of Galilee, a shared water source between the two countries, 15 July 2021. Photo: AFP
About the Authors
*Dr Ali Bakir is a Research Assistant Professor of international relations, security, and defence at Qatar University. He is also a Non-Resident Senior Fellow with Atlantic Council’s “Scowcroft Middle East Security Initiative” and Middle East programmes. Bakir previously held key positions including Senior Advisor to the Embassy of Qatar in Ankara, Head of the Gulf Studies unit at the Middle East Studies Center, and Senior Researcher at the International Strategic Research Organization’s Center for MENA studies. Bakir’s education, fieldwork, and work experience span several countries, including Kuwait, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Turkey and Qatar.
**Mr Abdallah H. Bakir is an expert in environmental, social and governance (ESG) sustainability and management, with a solid academic foundation. As a senior ESG consultant, he focuses on advancing corporate sustainability practices in the MENA region and aligning strategies with global environmental goals. Abdallah addresses carbon emissions and develops actionable plans to mitigate climate impacts while enhancing efficiency. His work emphasises the synergies between sustainability, stewardship and climate adaptation. Passionate about transformative change, he collaborates with businesses to integrate sustainability into core operations, fostering resilience and long-term value.
More in This Series
- Gina Bou Serhal, Serhat S. Çubukçuoğlu and Abdulla Alkhaja
- -