Climate change, conflict and gender nexus: evidence from Bor County, South Sudan

Mohammed U., Laki K.

Management of Environmental Quality, vol.36, no.2, pp.491-509, 2025 (ESCI) identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 36 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1108/meq-04-2024-0141
  • Journal Name: Management of Environmental Quality
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, ABI/INFORM, Aerospace Database, Agricultural & Environmental Science Database, Aqualine, Aquatic Science & Fisheries Abstracts (ASFA), CAB Abstracts, Communication Abstracts, Environment Index, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, Geobase, Greenfile, INSPEC, Metadex, Pollution Abstracts, Public Affairs Index, Veterinary Science Database, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.491-509
  • Keywords: Climate change, Climate change mitigation, Conflict, Gender, South Sudan
  • Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to explore the nexus between gender, conflict and climate change in Bor County, highlighting the negative feedback cycle between climate change and conflict and assuming gender as a framework through which individuals see and interpret climate change and instances of conflict. Design/methodology/approach: The research employs a qualitative method utilizing carefully designed semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions conducted in Bor, Jonglei State. Data were collected from a diverse sample of 35 interviews and one focus group discussion (FGD) involving various stakeholders. The research study encompassed a total of 70 participants. The study employs reflexive thematic methods in the data analysis. Findings: This research reveals Bor County’s enduring climate challenges: extreme temperatures, erratic rainfall and shifting seasonal patterns have led to droughts and severe floods. These disruptions affect livelihoods, trigger displacement and escalate community conflicts. Similarly, conflict exacerbates environmental degradation and undermines economic activities. In effect, climate change and conflict are self-perpetuating cycles. However, while climate change may contribute to conflicts in Bor, Jonglei state underlying causes predate current climate changes and would likely persist. The study further shows that gendered perceptions of climate change and conflict reveal distinct concerns among women and men, with women more attuned to resource implications while men prioritize immediate security. Moreover, women are disproportionately affected by both climate change and conflict, exacerbating their vulnerability due to structural inequalities. Practical implications: This study provides policymakers and stakeholders valuable insights into climate change-conflict and Gender Nexus in Bor. Incorporating a gender-sensitive and inclusive perspective into developing justice procedures involving national consultations, bills and enforcement procedures is imperative. Originality/value: This is the first work to examine climate, conflict and gender nexus in Bor County, South Sudan.