Drought-related conflicts, management and resolution in the West African Sahel: Considerations for climate change research

Abstract

In the face of recurrent droughts in the West African Sahel, conflicts between resource users have increased in number and have become more destructive. This raises concerns for long-term security of resident populations under conditions of climate change. This study of 27 communities in northern Nigeria finds that traditional institutions used in conflict management may be capable of moderating future conflicts that emerge due to climate change. These traditional institutions prioritise the maintenance of social and ecological systems, as opposed to the punishment of offenders that is the focus of western-style conflict resolution systems. Given their demonstrated effectiveness, traditional systems should be fostered within the context of sustainable development and be mainstreamed into national development policies.