CLIMATE change is “an aggravating factor” in instability, conflict and terrorism, United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres has warned.

He told a meeting of the UN security council on Thursday that the regions most vulnerable to climate change “also suffer from insecurity, poverty, weak governance and the scourge of terrorism.”

When climate disruptions hinder the ability of government institutions to provide public services, “it fuels grievances and mistrust towards authorities,” Mr Guterres said.