At the United Nations Headquarters, Liberia has warned that climate change is no longer just an environmental issue but a serious threat to peace and security.

Delivering Liberia’s national statement on March 26, 2026, the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, told members of the Group of Friends on Climate & Security that the country is already feeling the impact.

He said rising sea levels and strong coastal erosion are forcing many people from their homes. According to him, this situation is affecting livelihoods and creating tension in communities.

“This is not only an environmental problem. It is now a human security issue,” Dr. Yarkpawolo said.

He explained that people who lose their homes and land often move to other areas, leading to disputes over land and resources. These tensions, he noted, can grow into bigger conflicts if not handled well.

Dr. Yarkpawolo also spoke about the wider region, especially the Sahel, where long dry seasons and poor farming conditions are pushing young men to move south in search of better life. He named countries like Burkina Faso as places where many migrants are coming from.

He said some of these migrants are entering forest areas in Liberia to farm crops like cocoa. While this helps them survive, it is putting more pressure on land and forests and sometimes causes problems with local communities.

“The risk of conflict is growing quietly,” he warned.

Despite the challenges, the EPA boss said Liberia is working to address the problem. He spoke about programs that are helping young people find jobs while protecting the environment. These include eco-brigades, mangrove restoration, and community peace efforts.

He said these actions are helping to reduce tension and build trust among people.

Liberia is also trying to connect climate work with peacebuilding. Dr. Yarkpawolo said projects on the coast now include building protection, restoring nature, and supporting local people at the same time.

He called on the international community to support countries like Liberia with funding and technical help. He said climate finance and strong partnerships are needed to prevent future conflicts.

“We cannot talk about climate change without talking about security,” he said. “And we cannot have peace without dealing with climate problems.”

Dr. Yarkpawolo added that Liberia is ready to work with partners to turn climate challenges into opportunities for peace and development.