Unit 2. Problem Analysis

Problem analysis involves understanding the broader context of an undesirable situation, subsequently breaking down issues into manageable parts to identify fundamental concerns and inform intervention.

Climate change is considered by many as among the greatest risks for peace and security in the 21st century. As the planet’s temperature rises, extended droughts, rising sea levels and more frequent and intense storms are affecting the lives and livelihoods of people in all corners of the globe. Particularly in conflict affected settings, these impacts can compound economic, social or political drivers of insecurity, leaving already vulnerable populations on the frontlines of multiple, intersecting crises.

To assist with problem analysis for locally led action, Module 2.1 overviews the complex interactions between climate, peace and security, considering why issues may arise at their intersections. In Module 2.2, various techniques for problem analysis are introduced. Module 2.3 provides strategies for facilitating problem analysis with groups.

Concepts, tools, and participatory methods discussed in Unit 2 include:

The three modules of Unit 2 will help users:

• explain complex interactions in the Climate-Peace-Security Nexus
• trace the emergence of the global Climate, Peace and Security agenda
• gain familiarity with case studies that will be used throughout the action toolkit
• compare the strengths and weaknesses of a variety of approaches to problem analysis
• apply tools for problem analysis to a particular climate, peace and security context
• review previously used tools and existing knowledge for iterative analysis
• engage a variety of community members in the problem analysis stage of locally led action
• reflect on which tools will be most effective in a particular context
• conduct a holistic problem analysis through a multi-method, participatory approach

The overall purpose of Unit 2 is to equip facilitators with the knowledge and skills needed to lead a participatory problem analysis of the local climate, peace and security situation.