Name: The intersection of war and climate change
Uploaded: 2024-08-15T14:35:58Z
Duration: 11 min 26 s
Description: Conflict is the biggest barrier to tackling climate change, says youth advocate Victor Ochen. Having seen firsthand how war undermined Uganda's economic and environmental potential, he explains the need to address the shared root causes of conflict and climate issues — starting by empowering African youth.

Victor Ochen: The intersection of war and climate change

The intersection of war and climate change

Conflict is the biggest barrier to tackling climate change, says youth advocate Victor Ochen. Having seen firsthand how war undermined Uganda's economic and environmental potential, he explains the need to address the shared root causes of conflict and climate issues — starting by empowering African youth.

Conflict and climate change are deeply connected, especially across Africa where war undermines environmental and economic progress. In Uganda, a woman risked jail to burn charcoal because it was the only way to pay for her children's education and health care. The struggle for survival often forces communities to harm the environment, while global climate solutions ignore those on the front lines. Addressing these challenges demands new economic opportunities and the inclusion of Africa's youth in building a peaceful, sustainable future.