Understanding the Nexus Between Climate Change, Environmental Degradation, and Human Security in Mauritania
[Thesis]
Jones, Darryl L., II
Hailu, Alem
Howard University
2020
179 p.
Ph.D.
Howard University
2020
Climate change, environmental degradation, and human security are prevailing issues in the Islamic Republic of Mauritania in northwest Africa. Research has shown that a relationship exists among these phenomena, and their interactions have significantly contributed to the country's underdevelopment. Utilizing the capability approach of Sen (1979) and Nussbaum (2011), this qualitative study offers a sociological examination of this relationship with emphasis on the transformation of Mauritanian society through anthropogenic processes. The work unites two of the most compelling issues of the early 21st century, climate change and human rights, and assesses how an underdeveloped Sahelian state confronts them amid recurring drought, land mismanagement, and allegations of one of the highest incidences of slavery. The study takes a human-centered approach to development, affording prominence to human security, capability, and capacity. Research was conducted through a review a literature on climate change, environmental degradation, and human security in Mauritania and the greater Sahel region. Data triangulation was employed in order to offer a comprehensive understanding of the phenomena, particularly in regard to the varied interpretations offered by researchers of disparate cultural backgrounds. The study revealed that development forms the nexus of the three phenomena, and that its attainment is best achieved when human security and capability are actively engaged. It is therefore recommended that Mauritanian leaders seek the abolition of slavery and full participation of marginalized peoples in its development project in order to gain the human resource capacity needed to confront the challenges posed by the environment.