In the last ten years, climate change research has made considerable progress. Climate change continues to be a politically-charged issue, but in the scientific community, scientists universally agree that the earth's climate is shifting. The change in climate will stress existing systems, infrastructure, social and economic stability, and natural resources. The United States will have to assess the country's vulnerability in relation to climate change, as well as the secondary impacts on regional partners. In the Northern Hemisphere, Central America is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. From a national security standpoint, the United States will need to be prepared to address or respond to new drivers of conflict caused by climate change, including mass migration and natural resources scarcity in Central America. Additionally, great power competition presented by China's involvement in Central America will challenge the US perspective and the necessity of regional involvement. However, addressing the source of push factors, including socioeconomic opportunity, stability, and violence in Central America, can assist with alleviating factors for migration.

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