A global dependence on fossil fuels leads to international security risks through several interconnected mechanisms:
- Geopolitical Power Imbalances and Conflicts: Fossil fuel resources are unevenly distributed globally, concentrating power in resource-rich countries. This creates dependencies where energy-importing nations rely on politically unstable or authoritarian regimes for supplies, enabling these regimes to exert political leverage or fund conflicts. For example, Russia’s fossil fuel exports have financed its military actions in Ukraine, prolonging the war and destabilizing the region
- Economic Vulnerability and Political Instability: Heavy reliance on fossil fuels exposes countries to volatile prices and supply disruptions, which can trigger economic crises and social unrest. High energy costs disproportionately impact households, contributing to instability. Fossil fuel profits often benefit large corporations and autocratic governments rather than the general population, weakening democratic institutions and increasing inequality
- Fueling Armed Conflicts and Authoritarianism: Fossil fuel wealth can finance military build-ups and conflicts, as seen in multiple “oil wars.” Countries dependent on fossil fuel exports are more prone to armed conflict and authoritarian governance, undermining global peace and security
- Vulnerability to Energy Infrastructure Attacks: Fossil fuel infrastructure such as pipelines, refineries, and power plants are targets in conflicts, threatening national security and civilian safety. For instance, energy infrastructure in Ukraine has been deliberately targeted to weaken resistance
- Environmental and Social Risks: Fossil fuel extraction and use cause environmental disasters (oil spills, earthquakes from fracking) and health hazards, which can destabilize communities and create humanitarian crises that cross borders
- Exacerbation of Global Crises: Fossil fuel dependence worsens climate change, which itself is a threat multiplier for security by increasing resource scarcity, displacement, and conflict risks worldwide
In summary, global fossil fuel dependence creates a web of security risks by empowering authoritarian regimes, funding conflicts, causing economic and social instability, and making countries vulnerable to supply disruptions and environmental disasters. Transitioning to renewable energy is widely seen as the best path to enhancing international security by reducing these risks and dependencies
