The Nexus of Climate Change and Policing: Guidelines to Improve Climate Change Governance

Abstract

Abstract: Climate change has far-reaching ramifications for society, and its consequences cross conventional boundaries and affect many facets of life. While climate change's environmental, economic, social, and health consequences have received considerable attention, an important but frequently overlooked aspect of dealing with this crisis is its intersection with public safety and security and how law enforcement must be prepared to deal with climate breakdown. Climate change impacts and other natural catastrophes create complicated problems for governments in implementing appropriate police governance, notably regarding disaster risk reduction and management. Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, catastrophic weather events, and sea-level rise are just a few of the global crisis manifestations causing havoc in these areas. Climate change has repercussions across society, affecting millions and jeopardizing their livelihoods. Drought, desertification, land degradation, water shortages, and food insecurity are some of the effects that are becoming increasingly prevalent with the rise in global temperatures. Climate change is viewed as a risk multiplier because it exacerbates many criminal and illicit activities. For example, human trafficking has several links to climate change. Furthermore, the disruption of migration patterns due to climate change is a particular concern, introducing an additional layer of complexity for law enforcement. The urgent necessity for comprehensive and context-specific solutions to improve law enforcement institutions' resilience and adaptive capabilities, particularly in developing courtiers, is emphasized. Law enforcement measures must be enhanced, as well as the formulation of community policing strategies and the promotion of inter and intra-service collaboration. This is not a hypothetical issue; it is a live reality that demands immediate attention, novel solutions, and cross-sector collaboration.