A Distant Problem No Longer

Climate change has often been viewed as a challenge mainly affecting other parts of the world. However, this study shows that Europe is also becoming increasingly vulnerable to floods, droughts, wildfires, heatwaves and the social and political tensions that follow.

As climate change and its consequences intensify, familiar patterns of trust, stability and security are beginning to erode. The report examines how climate stresses interact with inequality, economic divides, the spread of disinformation and governance challenges, thereby undermining public trust and political legitimacy in various parts of the continent.

Drawing on field research and case studies from Europe, A Distant Problem No Longer illustrates how environmental shocks are reshaping communities and institutions, and emphasises the importance of understanding these links for building resilience in Europe’s democracies.

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