Forced Migration and Climate Change

Climate change-induced natural disasters, such as floods, droughts, and wildfires, are the primary drivers of forced migration, displacing millions of people worldwide.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, establishes the fundamental human rights of all individuals, including the right to seek asylum from persecution and the right to freedom of movement.

Internal displacement refers to the movement of people within their own country due to various factors, including climate change-related events, conflict, and human rights violations.

The UNFCCC is the primary international body tasked with coordinating global efforts to address climate change and its impacts, including forced migration.

The lack of a clear legal definition of 'climate refugee' poses a significant challenge in providing legal protection and assistance to people displaced by climate change.

The precautionary principle requires states to take precautionary measures to prevent or mitigate harm to the environment, even if there is scientific uncertainty about the extent of the harm.

The primary goal of the Paris Agreement is to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, thereby reducing the risks and impacts of climate change, including forced migration.

The UNFCCC is responsible for monitoring and reporting on the implementation of the Paris Agreement, including the progress made by countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Resettlement refers to the process of assisting people displaced by climate change to find a new home in a different location, either within their own country or in another country.

The UNHCR is responsible for coordinating global efforts to address the humanitarian needs of people displaced by conflict, persecution, and other forms of violence, including those displaced by climate change.

Adaptation refers to the process of adjusting to the impacts of climate change by taking measures to reduce vulnerability and increase resilience.

The GCF is the primary international mechanism for providing financial assistance to developing countries for climate change adaptation and mitigation measures.

Mitigation refers to the process of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to limit global temperature rise and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

The UNDP is responsible for coordinating global efforts to promote sustainable development, including addressing the challenges of climate change and forced migration.

Recovery refers to the process of assisting people displaced by climate change to recover from the impacts of displacement and rebuild their lives, including providing access to basic services, shelter, and livelihoods.