Climate induced migration refers to the movement of individuals or groups compelled to leave their habitual residence due to sudden or gradual environmental changes caused by climate change. This includes both forced and voluntary movements, which can occur internally within a country or across international borders. According to ILO, climate-driven migration is a nuanced phenomenon that defies simple categorization. People’s movement occurs across a complex spectrum, blending elements of choice and necessity. Ultimately, the decision to move is shaped by a web of environmental, economic, and personal factors that challenge straightforward distinctions between forced and voluntary migration.
The intricate relationship between climate change and migration has gradually gained importance in global policy discussions. A significant milestone occurred at the 2023 United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai, where migration was formally acknowledged as a direct consequence of climate change. This recognition set the stage for continued dialogue, with the subsequent COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, further exploring the complex interconnections between environmental shifts and population movements.
Bangladesh is extremely vulnerable to climate change-related challenges aggravating migration related pressures. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, 18.8 million internal displacements occurred due to 117 reported disaster events during 2009-2023 in Bangladesh, among which 1.8 million were recorded in 2023 alone. To put the number of incidents in Bangladesh into perspective, 3.6 million internal displacements were reported in South Asia in 2023. Globally these numbers were 402.4 million in this period and 26.4 million in 2023 respectively. According to various studies, one in every 45 people in the world and one in every seven people in Bangladesh, amounting to 13.3 million people, will be displaced by climate change by 2050. According to UNDP, 80% of people displaced by climate change are women, accentuating the gender dimension of this issue.
The reasons behind climate induced migration vary from extreme weather events, gradual environmental changes, socio-economic factors, and political and governance issues, among others. Its implications extend beyond individual experiences to affect broader societal structures and environmental conditions. Effects of climate induced migration range from loss of labor force, and socio-economic vulnerability to strain on resources. According to a World Bank report, climate migration could reduce global GDP by up to 1.7% by 2050.
The 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, the 2010 Cancun Adaptation Framework, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 are some of the notable initiatives regarding this issue. Several ministries and agencies of the Government of Bangladesh have responsibilities related to climate migration including the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, the National Disaster Management Council and the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment. On that note, the relevant national policy document, National Adaptation Plan of Bangladesh (2023‐2050) has mentioned the issue in the action plan, however, it lacks in-depth discussion or specific practical actions that might give way forward to solve this issue.
Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that considers multiple intervening factors and their differential impacts on various socio-demographic groups, as well as support from developed nations. First, inclusive migration policies that recognize climate-induced displacement as a legitimate reason for migration are essential. These policies should facilitate safe and legal migration pathways while ensuring the protection of migrants’ rights.
Second, establishing effective early warning systems for extreme weather events can help communities prepare for disasters, potentially reducing displacement. These systems should be accessible and tailored to local contexts. Third, developing clear evacuation plans and training local populations on disaster preparedness can mitigate the impacts of climate events, helping communities stay safe without resorting to permanent migration. On that note, implementing programs that allow voluntary relocation to safer areas can help communities adapt without losing their cultural ties or social networks. This requires careful planning and community involvement to ensure successful outcomes.
Fourth, promoting green jobs can provide economic opportunities for migrants while contributing to environmental sustainability. Fifth, creating global databases on climate-induced migration can aid policymakers in understanding patterns of displacement and formulating effective responses. This data should be disaggregated by gender, age, and socio-economic status to address specific vulnerabilities. Sixth, enhanced cooperation between countries, particularly between the Global North and South, is crucial for addressing the challenges of climate migration. This includes financial support for adaptation projects in vulnerable regions and sharing best practices for managing migration flows.
Last but not the least, climate induced migration is an undeniable reality and the world needs to plan accordingly. Noteworthily, one of the key discussions at COP29 revolved around ensuring that migration is not only seen as a consequence of climate change but also as a potential solution for adaptation. Migration, when well-managed, can help vulnerable communities cope with the worst impacts of climate change.
This article was first published in the December, 2024 edition of the Thinking Aloud
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