In December 2024, UNICRI, supported by the Government of Germany and in partnership with the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), convened a two-day national validation workshop in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The workshop represented a significant milestone in tailoring a comprehensive methodology to assess and address the interlinked risks posed by climate change and violent extremism in the Mauritanian context.
This workshop was part of a broader initiative, Strengthening National and Regional Approaches to Address Climate-Related Security and Violent Extremism Risks, launched in May 2024. The initiative seeks to enhance resilience and inform policy responses by developing tools sensitive to the unique climatic and socio-political challenges of the Sahel region.
The Nouakchott workshop provided a collaborative platform for a diverse range of national stakeholders, including representatives from government, civil society, academia, and international organizations. Participants worked together to review and enrich the proposed methodology, which encompasses risks and vulnerability mapping as well as the identification of locally tailored solutions.
Discussions highlighted the complex interactions between climate challenges in Mauritania – such as desertification, drought, and resource scarcity – and the resulting socio-economic vulnerabilities that violent extremist groups may exploit. Participants emphasized the need to integrate empirical data, ensure inclusivity by amplifying the voices of women, youth, and marginalized groups, and promote community-driven solutions within strategies for preventing violent extremism and adaptation to climate change. They also stressed the importance of adopting a participatory approach that fosters intersectoral collaboration and prioritizes local perspectives, ensuring interventions are both effective and context-specific.
This report presents the workshop's discussions, key insights, and actionable recommendations. It aims to serve as a practical resource for stakeholders addressing the complex nexus of climate change and violent extremism in Mauritania.
Discover the full report to explore the innovative methodologies and collaborative efforts shaping resilience and peacebuilding in Mauritania.
