Abyan governorate in southern Yemen faces growing environmental pressures that have become key drivers of local conflict, according to a recent study published by Berghof Foundation
The author of the study, Summer Nasser , a development professional and CEO of Yemen Aids, added that Water scarcity, land degradation and extreme weather events are intensifying social tensions in a region already affected by war and weak governance.
The study examines how environmental stressors contribute to disputes and connect to displacement, livelihood loss and declining social cohesion.
It also highlights the roles of tribal customs, religious authorities, local governance and community initiatives in mediating resource-related conflicts and identifies opportunities for local stakeholders and international donors to strengthen environmental management and support conflict-mediation efforts in Abyan.
Concluding the study, the author recommended that local stakeholders, including community organizations, associations, tribal leaders and local authorities, can play a vital role in mitigating environmental conflicts.
Nasser also recommended to support local mediation initiatives and capacities and provide support to conflict resolution mechanisms to take environmental concerns and sustainability more systematically into account, particularly around fair water-sharing agreements.
She also recommended “Support community dialogue on resource management and water issues, for example through bringing up- and downstream communities into dialogue with one another and enhancing awareness of the needs and concerns of affected communities”.
The study recommended stake holders to “Consider establishing climate change focal points, units or other suitable structures at the local authority level to assist with planning, coordination and community outreach around climate change and environmental pressures, including through joint sensitization, dialogue and conflict resolution initiatives by local authorities, civil society organizations and tribal/community leaders”.