Harnessing the Youth Dividend in Resolving the Intersecting Mine and Climate Change Action

In the face of global challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and landmine contamination, it is essential to explore innovative approaches that integrate efforts to address these issues. This policy brief outlines strategic recommendations that leverage the role of youth in mine action and climate security in Africa. This policy brief is a product of a groundbreaking virtual webinar convened under the Climate Security (CLIMSEC) Africa initiative that spotlighted the complex intersection of climate change, mine action, and peace in Africa in January 2025. Hosted by the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) in collaboration with Mines Action Canada (MAC), the event fostered an intergenerational dialogue that underscored the importance of unified action to confront cascading environmental and security challenges across the continent.

Africa faces a perfect storm of challenges, where climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating resource conflicts, displacing communities, and threatening livelihoods. These issues are further complicated by the presence of landmines and unexploded ordnance, which not only endanger lives but also hinder development and peacebuilding efforts. This policy brief summarizes the interconnected issues of mines and climate change, highlighting the role of young people and why Africa and indeed other parts of the world are yet to reap the youth dividends in climate and mine action and offers recommendations that can foster integrated and inclusive approaches for transformative action.

Read More on this Policy Paper: Harnessing the Youth Dividend in Resolving the Intersecting Mine and Climate Change Action

French Version here