Climate change and conflict in South Sudan: Community perceptions and implications for conflict-sensitive aid

This report explores the nexus between climate change, conflict and aid by focusing on community perceptions of climate change patterns and trends, perceptions of how climate and conflict interact, perceptions of aid and conflict sensitivity considerations, and the extent to which the aid sector has been integrating climate and conflict sensitivity strategies into their interventions in the case study locations. It draws on existing literature and field research conducted in two case study locations: Kapoeta in Eastern Equatoria State, and the Mangala-Bor Corridor, between Jonglei and Central Equatoria States.

Climatic changes have significant consequences on people in South Sudan, with varying levels of severity and impact on communities. Communities that are already displaced or reliant on aid face the dire consequences of climate change, and women and other marginalised groups are among the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Those with access to more diversified livelihood strategies, such as regular employment or active engagement in the market economy, or with access to powerful political patronage networks, are likely to be least adversely impacted by climate change. Across both case study locations, we found evidence that climate change is exacerbating tensions and triggering conflicts between certain groups, and in some instances making violent conflict more likely.