Press and News A new hub for Climate Security in the MENA region
As climate threats rise, CGIAR launched the MENA Climate Security Hub in Cairo, led by the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT, to advance practical, science-based solutions for peace, resilience, and lasting impact across the region.
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region stands at the frontline of climate change, where rising temperatures, water scarcity, and migration pressures are reshaping the future of millions of people and their environments. In response to these mounting challenges, the CGIAR officially launched the MENA Regional Climate Security Hub in Cairo, Egypt on May 2, 2023. Led by the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT and located in the office of ICARDA in Maadi, Cairo, the hub is a dynamic collaborative space where CGIAR centers and regional partners converge to generate climate security science and drive innovative and transformative solutions that advance climate resilience, peace, and sustainable livelihoods across the region.
Since 2022, the Alliance has steadily built its presence in the MENA region, laying the groundwork for a regional hub that bridges climate research and action. What began with a single post has grown into a vibrant team of experts working at the intersection of climate, peace, and security.
Frans Schapendonk
Climate Security Specialist
Martina Jaskolski
Scientist II
Salma Kadry
Climate, Peace, and Security Specialist
Grazia Pacillo
Senior Scientist and Co-lead of CGIAR FOCUS Climate SecurityFurther, the hub is dedicated to tackling the intricate interconnectedness between climate change, migration, food security, and peacebuilding while acknowledging that each one of them is inherently intertwined with the other and none can be addressed in isolations. In Jordan, for instance, research is underway to co-create climate-resilient livelihood solutions for refugees and host communities, bridging the gap between short-term humanitarian support and long-term social protection and safety net programs. At the same time, a partnership with the UN World Food Programme (WFP) is exploring pathways to transition from cash-based assistance to sustainable agricultural solutions, empowering refugees with opportunities for self-sufficiency in a changing climate.
The hub is also shaping regional policy by assessing the extent climate security is integrated into Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) across the MENA. By ensuring that climate policies put into consideration security implications, the hub is helping in building more resilient governance structures. Meanwhile, collaboration with the UNHCR is redefining vulnerability assessment methodologies in Jordan, improving the effectiveness of aid in climate-affected regions. Recognizing the power of collective action, the hub fosters a growing community of researchers and practitioners dedicated to climate security, strengthening networks and knowledge-sharing across the region.
Beyond research and policy engagement, capacity-building initiatives are equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools to integrate peace and security into climate mitigation and adaptation strategies.
The Hub marks a turning point in the regional response to climate-driven instability and is poised to make a lasting impact in the fight against climate insecurity by combining scientific research, evidence-based policy engagement, and targeted capacity building. With a clear vision and growing partnerships, it is bridging the gap between humanitarian aid and long-term solutions, ensuring that climate action goes beyond environmental sustainability to actively foster peace and security.
As the hub continues to expand, it remains steadfast in its mission to generate actionable insights, shape policies, and drive meaningful changes across the MENA region. The future of climate security in MENA is being reshaped today through science, collaboration, and a shared commitment to a more resilient and peaceful tomorrow.
