Climate Change and Its Impact on Foreign Policy

Climate change is becoming an increasingly pressing global challenge, having a significant impact on the foreign policies of countries around the world. Climate variations such as increasing temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increasing frequency of natural disasters are forcing countries to adapt and rethink their diplomatic strategies. One of the main impacts of climate change is increasing tensions regarding natural resources. Regions experiencing drought are likely to come into conflict with neighboring countries over water access, for example. This encourages countries to formulate more proactive foreign policies, including regional cooperation and bilateral agreements for water resources management. Countries are also starting to integrate environmental policies into their economic and trade strategies. A clear example is the introduction of ‘Green Diplomacy’, where countries seek to develop trade relations with other countries that implement environmentally friendly practices. This can strengthen economic bargaining positions while promoting sustainability. Climate change also affects international migration. The increasing number of people forced to leave their regions due to natural disasters or resource scarcity has become an important issue in foreign policy. Countries must prepare inclusive immigration policies and international partnerships to address the climate refugee crisis. On the other hand, oil and gas producing countries risk losing their geopolitical power, turning to renewable energy sources. Their foreign policy has also transformed, focusing on collaborating with countries that support the energy transition. National security threats are also increasing due to climate change. Political instability in countries vulnerable to natural disasters can create opportunities for extremist groups. This encourages countries to adjust national security strategies and increase collaboration with other countries in fighting terrorism caused by the environmental crisis. Investment in green technology is becoming an integral part of foreign policy. Countries committed to reducing carbon emissions will lead innovation, especially in renewable energy technologies. Research and development cooperation between countries is also increasingly strengthened to achieve global sustainability goals. At the international level, agreements such as the Paris Agreement mark the first step in global collaboration to confront climate change. Countries are expected to integrate these promises into their foreign policies and report progress transparently. The success of this initiative depends on the collective commitment of countries around the world. Cabe added that public support also plays an important role in encouraging the government to address the issue of climate change through foreign policy. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and pro-environmental movements often influence countries’ political agendas and diplomatic policies. Finally, climate change is not just an environmental issue, but also a multidimensional challenge that affects all aspects of foreign policy. Countries around the world must adapt and work together to create a sustainable future for future generations.