12 Dec 2025

Water, land and power: Environmental conflict drivers in Abyan, Yemen

The Abyan governorate in southern Yemen faces growing environmental pressures that have become key drivers of local conflict. Water scarcity, land degradation and extreme weather events are intensifying social tensions in a region already affected by war and weak governance. This study examines how environmental stressors contribute to disputes and connect to displacement, livelihood loss and declining social cohesion. It also highlights the roles of tribal customs, religious authorities, local governance and community initiatives in mediating resource-related conflicts and identifies opportunities for local stakeholders and international donors to strengthen environmental management and support conflict-mediation efforts in Abyan.