Towards a Peaceful and Sustainable Future: Addressing the Climate-Conflict Nexus in ASEAN

Aug 24, 2026 | Stratbase Institute
Makati, the Philippines
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In recent years, the nature of security threats has evolved significantly. Beyond traditional military concerns, non-traditional security challenges—particularly climate change—have emerged as critical threats to the survival and well-being of both states and societies. Climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” exacerbating existing vulnerabilities and contributing to resource scarcity, food and water insecurity, public health risks, and population displacement. These dynamics, in turn, heighten the risk of social tensions, humanitarian crises, and instability across regions.

In this context, the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship presents a strategic opportunity not only to elevate climate security within the regional agenda, but also to promote dialogue and cooperation among ASEAN Member States and key external partners. Given the transnational nature of climate risks, effective responses require engagement beyond the region, including collaboration with partners such as Germany, a recognized leader in climate and environmental diplomacy and sustainable development. Germany has been a longstanding partner of ASEAN in advancing environmental protection and climate change mitigation, supporting initiatives that strengthen resilience, promote green transitions, and foster multilateral cooperation.

In line with this, Stratbase Institute, in partnership with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in the Philippines, will organize a conference entitled “Towards a Peaceful and Sustainable Future: Addressing Climate Security in ASEAN” on August 24, 2026 (Monday) from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Ballroom 1, Fairmont, Makati. The event will convene key stakeholders from the government, private sector, diplomatic missions, academia, and civil society to examine the security implications of climate change, explore policy responses to strengthen climate resilience, and identify opportunities for advancing regional cooperation under the Philippines’ ASEAN leadership.