Presentation short abstract

Based on empirical studies in Algeria and Tunisia. We propose a comprehensive multi-level analysis of manifest and potential conflicts related to green hydrogen economies by systematically including the transnational and international level and their interlinkage to local and national conflicts.

Presentation long abstract

Existing scholarship on conflicts resulting from the energy transition and the export of renewable energy, including green hydrogen, focuses on land, energy and water, as well as political and socio-economic injustices at the sub-national and global level. We propose integrating these dimensions into a comprehensive multi-level analysis of manifest and potential conflicts related to green hydrogen economies by systematically including the transnational and international level and their interlinkage to local and national conflicts. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a political economy perspective as well as an actor-centered approach are essential for understanding conflict dynamics. We develop this multi-level analysis building on case studies on Algeria and Tunisia. Both countries have recently adopted green hydrogen strategies in response to increased demand from the EU, yet their political and economic landscapes differ significantly. Based on original empirical material from stakeholder interviews conducted in both countries, we explore the interconnections between existing political and socio-economic conflicts and emerging hydrogen conflicts. While the conflicts we observe are still of low intensity, there is a risk of increasing political violence due to the authoritarian contexts. The article concludes with reflections on the opportunities and limitations of conflict prevention in the context of the energy transition.