The effects of ongoing climate change pose serious challenges for human communities, beyond direct impacts on fisheries or coastal habitats. Major shifts in underlying ecosystems can put pressure on governance systems and, in regions or communities that are already vulnerable, pose serious risks to human security. There is mounting evidence of climate-triggered conflicts, including physical confrontations and labour abuses, though we argue that underlying governance status plays a key role in allowing (or sometimes facilitating) such outcomes. We present ongoing research into these topics, and suggest policy strategies to address current salient issues such as Indigenous rights and high seas governance. While climate changes are perhaps now unavoidable, their potential impacts can still be reduced.