Climate Change, Economic Inequality, and Global Security

Abstract

This paper discusses the interplay between climate stress and economic inequality and its effects on the outcomes of global security. The research assesses the security measures in the years 2000 to 2024 using a Climate Stress Index using temperature aberration, extreme precipitation, drought severity, and disaster frequency as the key indicators of security. The results indicate that there is a positive association between climate stress and insecurity, which is more robust in less equal societies. Uncovering that food-price stress and displacement pressure are mediating factors of this relationship, mechanism tests indicate that the amplification effect is strongest in fragile and low-capacity states. The research found inequality as a multiplier threat that increases effects of climate shocks. It suggests that in high-exposure, high-inequality situations, priorities should be given to equity-based adaptation, social protection, and resilience funding.