The Climate-Conflict Nexus and its Impact on Children in the Sahel

This report examines the interconnected relationship between climate change, armed conflict, and their compounded impacts on children in the Sahel region. Drawing on regional data, global indices, and evidence from conflict- and climate-affected contexts, it analyses how climate-induced stressors—such as drought, flooding, food insecurity, and resource scarcity—interact with weak governance and violent conflict to exacerbate violations of children’s rights. The publication highlights pathways linking climate change and conflict, including competition over natural resources, displacement, and exploitation by armed groups, and documents the resulting impacts on children’s survival, protection, education, and development. It concludes with policy recommendations for African Union bodies, regional economic communities, governments, UN agencies, and civil society to address the climate–conflict nexus through child-sensitive, conflict-sensitive, and climate-responsive approaches.