Stabilizing the climate will require peaceful solutions

It is critical that the solutions to climate change integrate a deep commitment to peace and to peaceful solutions to the crisis. It will not be possible to stabilize the climate for future generations without this commitment to peace.

Wars of aggression and the climate crisis are both manifestations of a failed international order

Climate change and global conflict are deeply linked problems and are both reflections of failed international institutions. The same global institutions that failed to protect Iraq from a war of aggression in 2003, for example, are the same global institutions that are failing to protect the climate from a complete and total breakdown.

In each case, global institutions are too weak to counteract manipulation from powerful countries that refuse to change their behavior or abide by international law.

Despite decades of global talks related to climate change, little has been done to actually reduce emissions. Powerful countries continue to dither even in the face of growing environmental calamities. The international order is failing to uphold the international rule of law.

JAI echoes the call from the UN Secretary General for a global cease fire

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, U.N. Secretary General António Guterres issued a call for countries of the world to honor a global ceasefire such that the world could unite behind a shared threat: the pandemic itself.

We echo the call for a global ceasefire, not just in response to the pandemic, but also as a way of commencing a collective effort to respond to the climate crisis.

Honoring a global ceasefire is a critical first step in stabilizing the climate. First, a global ceasefire reinforces the concept that the climate crisis is a crisis that must be resolved peacefully and through collective, peaceful efforts. At present, this is an uncertain prospect. For example, countries with borders along the Arctic are openly militarizing that region. Without a commitment to peace, climate change could presage wars and conflict in the Arctic and elsewhere.

Secondly, a global ceasefire reflects a shift in perspective amongst governments that may not, until now, have been ready to truly commit to stabilizing the climate. Our species will not solve the climate crisis through the same type of thinking that created the crisis to begin with. Instead of viewing each other as enemies, our species has to learn to work together to keep the climate stable for generations to come. This will require a shift in our collective thinking, and a genuine commitment to peace.

International law remains a powerful tool that can help build the international institutions that are needed to maintain a stable climate for generations to come. Solving our global problems through the law, and through a commitment to peace, is the type of thinking that can endure, and which will keep the planet habitable.