Water Wars and Climate: Mapping the Geopolitical Flashpoints of River Basin Conflicts
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Increasing climate variability and dwindling freshwater resources have intensified transboundary tensions, particularly in shared river basins. This study addresses the critical gap in understanding how climate-induced water stress exacerbates geopolitical conflicts. The primary objective is to identify and analyze global hotspots, "water wars" flashpoints, where climate change intersects with political, economic, and hydrological vulnerabilities. Using a mixed-methods approach combining geospatial mapping, conflict event datasets, and case study analysis, the study examines key river basins such as the Nile, Tigris-Euphrates, and Indus. Results likely reveal patterns where climate-driven scarcity, unequal access, and governance asymmetries heighten the risk of conflict. The study concludes that proactive diplomatic frameworks and adaptive water-sharing agreements are essential to prevent escalation. Its insights contribute to policy planning, environmental security studies, and climate adaptation strategies.
Source: Global Political Review
Institutions: University of Karachi, National Defence University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4413797423