Population and conflict: New dimensions of population dynamics

Abstract

The pervasiveness of population issues can be seen today in almost all aspects of human society. While our understanding of these issues has greatly increased over the last decade and a half, the implications o! population dynamics for conflict behaviour have not been well explained. Population, conflict and their interaction may be important factors in determining the kind of world we will face for the remaining decades of this century and those of the next. While the absence of population related pressures does not guarantee peace, these pressures could increase the probability of conflict. This is particularly true when such additional aggravating factors as widening economic disparities, worsening environmental conditions and dwindling natural resources are also present in countries. This report by Professor Nazli Choucri brings into focus the role of population dynamics in conflict manifestations. It also underscores the need to resolve population issues within a development framework if prosperity and peace for mankind are to be ensured. The UNFPA is pleased to see this report appear in time for the International Conference on Population in 1984 and hopes that this report in the Policy Development Studies series will advance the understanding of a complex and important issue.