Economic and social rights as instruments of conflict prevention in climate-vulnerable states in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Millions of people in Sub-Saharan Africa live in a reality affected by both armed conflict and extreme climate events. As climate change becomes more pronounced, it increasingly impacts a wide range of economic and social rights. This thesis examines the intersection of armed conflict, climate change, and the realisation of economic and social rights in the region. It argues that the failure to fulfil minimum core obligations related to economic and social rights, especially in fragile contexts marked by weak governance, deepens vulnerabilities and grievances that may contribute to or exacerbate non-international armed conflicts. Climate change acts as a ‘threat multiplier’, worsening existing socioeconomic inequalities and undermining already fragile state structures, thereby increasing the risk of instability. Using a human rights-based approach, this study highlights how fulfilling minimum core obligations and making progress toward the progressive realisation of rights can support both human and national security, as well as climate resilience. It also underscores the dangers of neglecting such rights, including the risk of armed groups exploiting popular discontent. The thesis advocates for stronger justiciability and enforcement of minimum core obligations, particularly in fragile settings. It further calls for mainstreaming human rights considerations in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. While the study focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa, its findings hold broader relevance. Its analytical framework and conclusions offer insights into how human rights-based approaches can support both conflict prevention and responses to the adverse effects of climate change in a variety of global contexts