Addressing the interdependence between peace and climate change: need for renewed global diplomacy

Key points

The EESC:

• is of the opinion that it is imperative that climate and security policy are no longer treated in isolation, but be viewed as mutually reinforcing elements of a sustainable and peaceful global future;
• estimates that in foreign policy, the EU should champion climate diplomacy that links environmental goals with conflict prevention and peacebuilding;
• argues that the EU should position itself as a multiplier of values by promoting climate action that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs);
• thinks that the EU must accelerate the implementation of the European Green Deal through national and union-wide action plans;
• is convinced that simultaneously, the EU should scale up its Green Deal/SDG diplomacy by leveraging its sustainability expertise to support developing regions. This involves strengthening partnerships through structured cooperation with the Global South;
• advocates that in multilateral forums, the EU must remain at the forefront of global climate advocacy. A robust multilateral presence is crucial in the context of waning US engagement;
• believes that a renewed EU diplomatic strategy must be grounded in three guiding principles:
  • climate considerations should be fully integrated into conflict prevention strategies
  • the EU must prioritise regional and multilateral cooperation
  • sustainable development should be promoted as a peace mechanism;
• urges the EU to overcome internal fragmentation and take steps towards strategic autonomy, and
• is convinced that the EU could make use of its Trade policy as a tool/instrument to foster sustainable development, to address climate change and peaceful economic growth.