OSCE Mediterranean partners discuss environment and security

AMMAN, 18 June 2012 – Water scarcity, land degradation, climate change, energy security and the role of the civil society are the focus of a three-day workshop that started today in Amman, organized by the OSCE Office of the Co-ordinator for Economic and Environmental Activities and the Jordanian government.

The meeting, attended by some 40 policymakers, scientists and experts, and non-governmental organizations from the Mediterranean region, will identify environmental issues that could impact on security, as well as the environmental implications of security policies.

Speaking at the opening, OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said: “Environmental issues have a direct impact on security. The aim of this meeting is identify problems in the region concerning the environment and security where the OSCE could offer assistance.”

Participants will focus on the Southern Mediterranean region, but will also discuss related environment and security aspects in the Northern Mediterranean and adjacent regions.

The workshop is organized with the support of the Spanish and Belgian Governments.