Climate change and civil conflict

Climate change and civil conflict: the contributions of UNSC, UNFCCC, EU and G8 countries

Abstract

The security implications of climate change continue to attract growing attention in the spheres of academia and policy. To meaningfully interpret the ongoing debate over the alleged relationship between climate change and civil conflict onset, it is important to consider what is happening in those two spheres. While the academic side of that debate feeds into the policy sphere, so it is with the contributions of certain International Governmental Organisations (IGOs). The thesis uses four IGOs as case studies – the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), European Union (EU) and Group of Eight (G8) countries. The point being made here is that contestations over the difficult climate/conflict relationship are best understood when interpretation of original speeches (interview transcripts) recognises external contexts that actually establish language and interaction, such as the socio-political context of climate security. Viewed as such the thesis is well-positioned to explore trends and propose how these trends may be implicated in the representations of socially different effects in the real world.

Meet the researcher – Christopher Odeyemi

Qualifications: Research Master (Vic Uni); MInt.Secu (Massey Uni); MPS (Auckland Uni)

Chris Lecturing

Having lived in Paris for four years, Christo felt more comfortable studying in English and so made his way to New Zealand in 2001. Thirteen years later he secured a Victoria University scholarship. Thanks to the support he received throughout his studies, he was able to publish the thesis’ findings – one of his greatest career achievements to date. Another career highlight: Christo is a current recipient of UTS Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarship. To Christo, everything about UTS is cool. If, however, there was ever a contest, his supervisors would win – any time, any day. Awesome folks! Their help and support has been priceless – without them he wouldn’t be in the position he’s in today.

 

Christo's favourite quote:

When dedication, a scholarship and excellent teaching staff unite, student academic dreams come to life.

Email: christoIdowu.odeyemi@student.uts.edu.au
Principal supervisor: Associate Professor James Goodman
Co-supervisor: Dr. Lai-Ha Chan

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.