Environment and Security 2026

Environmental change is no longer a distant concern but a defining challenge of our time. The crossing of several planetary boundaries—from climate and biodiversity to land, freshwater, and chemical cycles—signals that the Earth system is under unprecedented stress. These shifts threaten human security directly, as they amplify resource scarcity, displace populations, disrupt livelihoods, and increase the risk of conflict. Vulnerable groups and fragile states are often hit hardest, but the consequences ripple globally.

While frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provide shared goals, implementation is lagging as crises multiply. Geopolitical tensions, wars, and economic instability risk diverting attention away from the urgent environment–security nexus. Yet the reality is clear: climate change, ecosystem collapse, and pollution are no longer just environmental problems—they are core security challenges.

Unique mix of top-down lectures and discussions where participants engage with interdisciplinary experts and develop strategies to place the environment–security agenda firmly on decision-making tables. The goal is to explore innovative approaches that use environmental cooperation not as a secondary policy issue, but as a crucial instrument for global peace and security. 

Learning objectives

The participants will:

• Gain deeper understanding of environment and security nexus in the current security context.
• Assess the risks tied to crossing planetary boundaries and emerging environmental crises.  
• Explore tools for cooperation and negotiation over shared natural resources.
• Identify how environmental cooperation can be leveraged as a strategy for conflict prevention, crisis response, and long-term resilience.
• Become part of a network of experts and fellow professionals.

Course Modules

• Phase 1: 03-07 December 2026 (1 session)
• Phase 2: 07-10 December 2026 (4 days intensive)
• Phase 3: 10-15 December 2026 (1 session)

All information you need to know (language, certification, technical and application process) before applying to the GCSP are available here. 

You will receive a GCSP certificate once you have completed all the course modules to the satisfaction of the course director.

This course will be of interest to professionals in the international security sector and beyond, such as: 

• civil servants;
• diplomats;
• military;
• private sector representatives;
• NGOs; and,
• international organisations. 

To address this global challenge cooperation amongst actors from diverse sectors is required. 

15% Early-Bird Discount if you apply before 15.10.2026. GCSP Alumni qualify for a 20% discount on the standard rate of 750 CHF. Bring a friend: 600 CHF (ensure your friend or colleague mentions your name in their online application)