Attachments
Citation
Al-Zu’bi, Maha; Weston, S.; Shahid, S.; Brouziyne, Youssef; Mujtaba, I.; Naber, M. A. 2024. Conceptualizing the intersection of the Water-Energy-Food-Environment (WEFE) Nexus, human security, and inclusive society: insights from Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions. Colombo, Sri Lanka: International Water Management Institute (IWMI). CGIAR Initiative on Fragility to Resilience in Central and West Asia and North Africa. 12p.
Abstract/Description
Water, energy, and food provisioning plays a pivotal role in advancing social and economic development. Human well-being cannot be attained without ensuring secure access to water, energy, and food resources, as well as maintaining a healthy environment. The Water-Energy-Food-Environment (WEFE) Nexus presents intricate interlinkages with the concept of an inclusive society, where every individual, regardless of background or circumstances, has an opportunity to fully participate and benefit from societal resources and opportunities equitably. The intersectionality of WEFE Nexus with human security underscores the complex interconnections between access to resources, societal inclusion, and the protection of individual well-being. Understanding the intersectionality of the WEFE Nexus can contribute to fostering an inclusive society and human security through: conflict prevention; equal access and distribution of resources; community participation and engagement; promotion of diversity; addressing gender inequality and social exclusion; resilience building; and sustainable development. This discussion brief investigates and conceptualizes the intersectionality between the WEFE Nexus and the concepts of inclusive society and human security. This intersectionality is highlighted through three examples from the MENA, SSA, and Asia-Pacific regions. It contains insights from a literature review and a summary of discussion points from a three-day Royal Academy of Engineering’s Frontiers Symposium ‘The Nexus in Action: Navigating the Water-Energy-Food-Environment Nexus for Climate Resilient and Inclusive Futures’ held from 7-9 February 2024, in Amman, Jordan jointly hosted by the Royal Scientific Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering. In navigating the challenges posed by climate change, conflict, and socioeconomic disparities, a concerted focus on the WEFE Nexus offers a pathway towards building inclusive societies and enhancing human security as evidenced in the MENA, SSA, and Asia-Pacific regions. Through continuous collaboration, innovation, and commitment to sustainable development, a future can be created where all individuals have access to the resources needed to thrive.