CLIMATE CHANGE AND SOCIAL-NATURAL DISASTERS: THE CHALLENGE FOR SECURITY AND DEFENSE

Abstract

Anthropic climate change derives from a series of actions and practices that generate alterations in the atmosphere composition. Its effects are observed in the increase of global average temperature, the loss of ice masses, alterations in rainfall regimes, the higher incidence and intensity in socio- environmental disasters; among others.

For its characteristics, Chile is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Among the projected effects are an increase in temperature and a decrease in precipitation; the loss of productive area and the expansion of the agricultural frontier to the south of the country; an increase in the morbidity and mortality of the population; as well as the higher incidence of drought events and intense storms.

The major strategic vulnerabilities projected for Chile, will be the shortage of water resources. This will be further worsened by the current management and regulations. This shortage, as well as that of food, are the main precursors of security problems, which, if unresolved, can escalate to local or even international conflicts

Considering the effects of climate change, new and complex threats are activated due to their transversally and uncertain nature. For this, it is imperative to have Armed Forces in constant transformation, adaptation and preparation, to maintain the capacity of response of force, means and equipment.