Ms Julia De Souza Lucena Nishio1
1Hiroshima University, Japan
Biography:
PhD Candidate at Hiroshima University. Msc International Security and Defence at the Brazilian War College.
Abstract:
This paper provides an overview of the relationship between climate change and security within the context of Brazilian policy, which will be done by examining how emerging climate-related security risks might shape national defence priorities. The primary research question guiding this analysis is: how do domestic and international factors influence the incorporation of climate change into Brazil's security policy? While the United Nations increasingly recognizes climate change as a multidimensional threat to both human and state security, Brazil’s defence documents acknowledge climate change’s potential impacts but lack specific goals and actionable strategies. Specifically on the Brazilian case, the current visible effects of climate change are related to – but not limited to – the following factors: rising temperatures, decreased rainfall, intensification of the dry season, sea level rise and floodings, changes in rainfall patterns, and intensification of extreme weather events. Therefore, measures to deal with the impacts of climate change – and energy transition – deserve heavy investment and attention. In presenting climate change as an essential element of security policy, this paper provides insights for policymakers on fostering resilience and public engagement to address future climate-driven challenges. The findings underscore the necessity for a proactive, multi stakeholder approach to climate security in Brazil, which might contribute with perspectives to the broader field of public policy, international relations, security studies, and sustainable development. The methodology of this paper follows a qualitative approach based on the exploratory research of primary and secondary sources, as well as journalistic sources.