Social Perceptions and Representations of Climate Change in Niger Republic: A Social Phenomenon with Multiple and Varied Interpretations

This article analyzes the local perceptions and representations of climate change in the republic of Niger. Commonly, the scholars indicate that anthropogenic activities are the basis of greenhouse gas emissions which favors the triggering of climate change. Though the repetitive climatic hazards degrade the natural resources, increase the vulnerability of the population socio-economic conditions and therefore represent a threat for the survival of the population especially in developing countries. In Niger republic most of the populations are rural and have their own social perceptions and representations about this social phenomenon. The objective of this article is to explore and analyze the local perceptions and social representations in the form of statements of climate change. These perceptions and representations are structured around numerous climate change manifestations such as changes in precipitation, temperature in wind prediction of the quality of the rainy seasons and strong occurrence of floods. This analysis finds its originality in the context of rainfall deficit, degradation of agricultural and pastoral lands as well as other climatic manifestations. An 87% rural and agro-pastoral population naturally present perceptions and representations of a phenomenon that is destructive and disruptive to their survival. These perceptions and representations are analyzed to understand climate change in all its facets.