BREAKING: Experts warn that the dual crises of climate change and conflict are posing an urgent threat to global health, with potentially devastating outcomes. A new report published in The BMJ highlights that from 1995 to 2015, conflicts were responsible for over 10 million child deaths, underscoring the dire implications for vulnerable populations.
The report emphasizes that regions facing high-intensity conflicts experience mortality rates for women of reproductive age that are three times higher than in peaceful areas. This alarming statistic illustrates the increased risks women face in these environments, where the compounded effects of climate-related disasters, such as extreme heat, further exacerbate health crises.
In the exceptionally hot summers of 2022 and 2024, over 60,000 heat-related deaths were recorded across 32 European countries, with women disproportionately affected. As climate hazards intensify, the report warns that the indirect impacts on health will be severe, with damage to health infrastructure and disrupted supply chains leading to increased undernutrition and the spread of infectious diseases.
URGENT CALL TO ACTION: The experts stress that immediate climate action—both mitigation and adaptation—is essential for addressing these health risks. However, ongoing conflicts often redirect vital resources away from climate priorities. For instance, following Russia’s invasion, Ukraine’s investments in climate mitigation faced significant cuts as funding shifted to wartime needs.
Moreover, military activities contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for a conservative estimate of 5.5% of the global total, with the United States being the largest emitter. This underlines the critical intersection of military conflict and climate change, which must be addressed to promote sustainable development and peace.
The report calls for decision-makers at all levels to recognize the interplay between climate, health, and conflict. They advocate for the scaling up of climate action, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected states, to break the cycle of escalating climate impacts and deteriorating health outcomes.
One promising initiative highlighted is the Climate Conflict Vulnerability Index, designed to identify areas where climate and conflict hazards intersect with social vulnerabilities. This tool could help reinforce efforts to mitigate health impacts in vulnerable communities.
The experts conclude, “Only by integrating climate action with conflict prevention and peacebuilding can we disrupt the vicious cycle of escalating climate impacts, deteriorating health, and rising instability.” Strengthening health systems must be at the forefront of these initiatives, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need.
With the clock ticking on climate change, the time for action is now. Share this urgent message to raise awareness about the critical links between climate, health, and conflict. For further details, refer to the full report in The BMJ.
