According to the Lloyd’s Register Foundation World Risk Poll, Ethiopia ranks second globally among countries where a significant proportion of people feel unthreatened by climate change. The poll reveals that 39% of Ethiopians believe climate change is “not a threat at all” to their safety, while 40% see it as a threat, including 16% who regard it as “very serious.” Additionally, 21% are unsure whether climate change poses a threat.
This perception contrasts starkly with scientific projections about the country’s climate future. The UN Development Programme’s Human Climate Horizons platform predicts Ethiopia’s average annual temperature could rise from 20°C (68°F) to 24°C (75°F) by the century’s end. It also forecasts up to 71 days annually exceeding 35°C (95°F), exacerbating the nation’s frequent drought conditions.
Rising Risks for Ethiopia
Ethiopia already faces significant climate challenges, including prolonged droughts and extreme weather events. In 2023, after years of drought, the country’s southern regions experienced severe flooding caused by heavy rains overwhelming the dry, hardened ground. This dual threat of drought and flooding underscores the urgent need for climate adaptation.
Higher temperatures could also lead to increased mortality, reduced productivity, and further environmental stress. Yet, the disconnect between public perception and the actual risks highlights a critical gap in awareness.
Bridging the Awareness Gap
Nancy Hey, Director of Evidence and Insight at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, emphasized the importance of effective communication to bridge this gap. “Scientific evidence needs to be translated and communicated in ways that are easily understandable and relevant to the public,” she stated. Targeted education campaigns, policymaker engagement, and community-driven awareness initiatives could play a pivotal role in helping Ethiopians better understand the risks they face.
Global Perspective on Climate Perceptions
Ethiopia is not alone in its skepticism. The World Risk Poll highlights other countries where significant portions of the population feel unthreatened by climate change, including Saudi Arabia (46%), the United Arab Emirates (38%), and India (25%). These findings call for a global effort to align public understanding with scientific evidence.
As Ethiopia navigates its climate challenges, raising awareness and building resilience will be critical for safeguarding its communities and ecosystems against an increasingly uncertain future.