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KLIMAFORSK-Stort program klima

Dynamics of Environmental Change and Conflict

Awarded: NOK 0.10 mill.

Among the many potential devastating consequences of climate change, the risk of societal disruption and violent conflict stand out as especially worrisome. This proposal responds to the KLIMAFORSK call for providing a better understanding of the risks climate change poses to social systems. It involves hosting Assistant Professor Andrew M. Linke, University of Utah, at PRIO as a guest researcher for 7 months to study how socioeconomic impacts of climate anomalies affect social cohesion. Specifically, Linke in collaboration with the PRIO team will make extensive and innovative use of georeferenced survey data in order to quantify and analyze the role local socioeconomic and political contexts play in shaping climate-conflict connections. A political geographer by training, Andrew Linke's background, experience, and demonstrable research talent make him the ideal candidate to conduct research activities outlined in this proposal. At PRIO, Linke will be integrated into ongoing research activities on security dimensions of climate change. Two projects are of especial relevance, and will benefit the most from Linke's work; an ERC Consolidator Grant project on Climate Variability and Security Threats (CLIMSEC) and a new project on Quantifying Conflict Risk of Agricultural Productivity Changes (CROP), funded by the Research Council of Norway. Both projects are led by Research Professor Halvard Buhaug who also serves as project manager for this activity. CLIMSEC will cover salary and indirect costs for Linke's visit while CROP will cover travel to Oslo and one month of accommodation. This proposal seeks funds to cover housing expenses for the remaining six months plus travel expenses for Linke's family.

Funding scheme:

KLIMAFORSK-Stort program klima