CMDR COE Successfully Conducted ESDC Basic Course on Climate Change, Environmental Degradation and Security
Date: (26-03-2026)
From 24 to 27 March 2026, the CMDR COE, under the auspices of the European Security and Defence College (ESDC), successfully delivered the basic course “The Implications of Climate Change, Environmental Degradation and Exploitation on International Peace, Security and Defence.”
The course brought together military and civilian personnel, representatives from EU Member States, and subject-matter experts to examine the growing impact of climate change on international peace, security, and defence, with particular attention to resilience, crisis response, and defence planning.
Over four days, participants engaged in lectures, discussions, and practical activities covering a broad range of topics related to environmental security. These included NATO’s approach to climate change and environmental degradation, climate geopolitics, climate resilience, the weaponisation of weather, and the use of Earth observation and EU tools to support situational awareness and informed decision-making.
A highlight of the programme was the Climate Defence Fresco workshop, which provided participants with an interactive opportunity to deepen their understanding of the complex links between climate dynamics and security challenges.
By fostering a shared understanding of emerging environmental risks and their implications for peace and security, the course strengthened awareness and preparedness among professionals working in crisis management, resilience, and defence.
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