The World Bank warned on Thursday that Yemen faces growing threats from climate change.
The WB’s Yemen Country Climate and Development report said half of Yemenis are already exposed to at least one climate hazard — extreme heat, drought, or flooding — with compounding effects on food insecurity and poverty.
The report also spoke about risks to the fisheries sector, considered as a critical source of livelihood for many Yemenis. Its projections indicate a potential decline of up to 23% in fish stocks due to rising sea temperatures and altered marine ecosystems.
These risks are expected to intensify without immediate action. Yemen’s annual GDP could decline by an average of 3.9% by 2040 under pessimistic climate scenarios, largely due to decreased agricultural productivity and infrastructure damage.
Despite these challenges, the report identifies strategic opportunities to strengthen resilience, improve food and water security, and unlock sustainable growth.
By investing in water security, climate-smart agriculture, and renewable energy, Yemen can safeguard human capital, build resilience and lay the foundations for a path to sustainable recovery.