The nexus between dwindling natural resources and international conflict is a complex and increasingly pressing issue. While not the sole cause of conflict, scarcity of vital resources like water and natural gas can significantly exacerbate existing tensions and even trigger new ones. Water scarcity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, is a major driver of conflict. Competition for dwindling water resources among states, communities, and even individuals can lead to violent clashes. The Nile River basin, for example, faces intense competition for its waters among several riparian nations. This competition is further complicated by uneven development and differing water management practices, leading to potential points of friction. Similarly, the depletion of natural gas reserves can fuel conflict. Natural gas is a crucial energy source and its scarcity can have severe economic and social consequences. Countries heavily reliant on natural gas imports are particularly vulnerable to supply disruptions, which can lead to political instability and even armed conflict. Control over natural gas pipelines and distribution networks can become a major source of contention, as seen in various geopolitical hotspots. The situation is further complicated by climate change. Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns are exacerbating water scarcity and impacting natural gas production and distribution. This adds another layer of complexity to resource competition and increases the likelihood of conflict. International cooperation and effective resource management are crucial to mitigate these risks, but the path toward such cooperation is often fraught with challenges, including issues of sovereignty and conflicting national interests. Moreover, the interplay between resource scarcity and political instability is often a vicious cycle. Weak governance, corruption, and lack of access to resources can worsen existing inequalities and create conditions ripe for conflict. Addressing these underlying issues is as crucial as managing the resources themselves to prevent future conflicts.
1. According to the passage, what is the primary reason for the increasing likelihood of conflict related to water and natural gas?
2. Which of the following examples is used in the passage to illustrate the conflict potential of water scarcity?
3. The passage suggests that the relationship between resource scarcity and political instability is:
4. What solution does the passage implicitly advocate for mitigating the risks of conflict stemming from resource scarcity?