Climate, Energy and Security: The New Social Contract of Europe and Spain
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Abstract
In the current context of growing climate instability and geopolitical tensions, the article addresses the critical nexus between climate change, energy security and governance as the basis for a new social contract in Europe and Spain. The approach is based on a central premise: the energy transition and the fight against climate change cannot be addressed in isolation, but must be integrated into a common strategic vision that combines sustainability, social resilience and political autonomy (Mazurier et al., 2020). The work is structured around five thematic axes. First, the conceptual framework of the link between climate and security is examined from the academic literature, highlighting the role of climate change as a risk multiplier (Barnett & Adger, 2007) and the complexity of multilevel governance (Keohane & Victor, 2011). Secondly, the European regulatory framework is analysed, especially the European Green Deal and the Strategic Compass, as pillars that redefine security in integrated terms: energy, climate and civil. Thirdly, the Spanish case is contextualised, emphasising its high energy dependence and climate vulnerability, but also its potential to lead a transition from the local level with renewable energies and decentralisation. Fourthly, the cooperation mechanisms between the EU and Spain are presented, such as electricity interconnections, green hydrogen alliances and the Just Transition Fund. Finally, key strategic challenges are identified: modernization of electricity grids, adaptation to climate change, technological innovation, geopolitical diversification and citizen participation (Mazurier et al., 2020). The article argues that Spain, thanks to its geographical location, economic structure and European institutional framework, has a historic opportunity to reconfigure its national security by integrating energy, climate and social policies (Luque et al., 2023; Martino, 2024). Through a pragmatic and humanized approach, the importance of multi-level partnerships, sustainable investments, and citizen inclusion to build resilient and equitable security is highlighted. In conclusion, it is proposed that the security of the twenty-first century will only be effective if it is shared, sustainable and people-centered, transforming systemic challenges into opportunities for cohesion and progress (Payá et al., 2018; Payá, 2023).