Integrated Environmental Policies in Europe & CIS

Environment and Security Initiative

Main challenges in the region

The Environment and Security Initiative (ENVSEC) is designed to address environmental threats by promoting better resource management as a strategy to enhance cooperation and reduce tensions. Ongoing disputes and disagreements over the management of natural resources shared by two or more states can deepen divides and lead to hostilities. Environmental co-operation can therefore act as a means to prevent conflicts and promote peace between communities. The ENVSEC is structured in three distinct but interlinked pillars. These with  the assessment of environmental and security risks; capacity building and institutional development to strengthen environmental cooperation; and the integration of environmental and security concerns in international and national policies.

UNDP priority areas and activities

The project seeks to facilitate a process whereby key public decision-makers in South Eastern and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus can initiate peace and protect the environment at the same time. The initiative relies on extensive regional consultations in order to:

• Identify environment and conflict hotspots by carrying out desk and field assessments;
• Present the results of the assessments in graphically rich maps, reports and websites, and draw the attention of politicians and people to situations where risks are high;
• Help societies deal with priority issues by raising awareness, building capacities and strengthening institutions;
• Support concrete action and catalyse specific solutions to security-relevant environmental problems on the ground.