Lippert argues that while there are groups within NATO working on climate-related issues at the state level, such as the Emerging Security Challenges Division, the organization’s decision-making processes are largely reactive and require the consensus of all 28 member states. This decentralization makes little use of the strength of NATO’s member states, which individually have strong planning capabilities, and could prevent NATO from quickly responding to nonlinear, complex problems. Lippert suggests analysis via a risk management framework, such as that developed by the non-profit International Risk Governance Council, could help NATO adapt and better coordinate its efforts with individual member states and other international organizations.
[This text originally appeared on New Security Beat, the blog of the Environmental Change and Security Program (Wilson Center).]
