Weaponization of Natural Resources as a Hybrid Threat
Publisher: CoESPU Magazine: The Online Quarterly of Stability Policing
Author(s): Antimo Altomare and Marina Bizzotto
Date: 2025
Topics: Governance, Weapons, Waste, and Pollution
Environmental crimes is becoming more and more prominent as the widespread understanding of their short-term impacts and long-term consequences grows. Although violations of environmental laws and regulations are localized, very often the consequences may be transnational and far-reaching. Most environmental damage results from common and well-known environmental crimes such as pollution offences (of air, water and soil), wildlife crimes (including wildfires, poaching and illegal logging) or smuggling. On the other hand, some damages are related to crimes of omission or intentional acts intended to cause detriment to ecological and/or biological systems with the aim of gaining financial, political or tactical-military advantage. The complexity of environmental crimes makes difficult law enforcement response to human attitude towards the environment. In this case, the rule of (environmental) law as well as law enforcement can be employed as a tool to address environmental security threats and to promote inclusive processes for implementing environmental policies. The rule of law in environmental matters is essential in order to achieve sustainable development and to ensure equal access to rights as well as the promotion and protection of environmental and other socio-economic rights. By the same token, the UNEP Governing Body’s Decision 27/9, on Advancing Justice, Governance and Law for Environmental Sustainability, Member States recognize that «the violation of environmental law has the potential to undermine sustainable development and the implementation of agreed environmental goals and objectives at all levels and that the rule of law and effective governance play an essential role in reducing such violations.».