Climate migrant

Climate migrant refers to an individual who is forced to leave their habitual residence due to sudden or gradual changes in their local environment which are attributed to climate change. These changes compromise their well-being or secure livelihood. Such changes include increased drought, desertification, sea level rise, and disruption of seasonal weather patterns such as monsoons. Climate migrants may move within their own countries or across international borders. The term is often used interchangeably with "environmental migrant" or "climate refugee," although "climate refugee" is not recognized in international refugee law.

Causes

Climate migrants are primarily forced to move due to:

• Environmental Disasters: Events such as floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes, which are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change, can devastate communities and make areas uninhabitable.
• Sea Level Rise: This affects low-lying coastal areas, leading to loss of land and increased salinity that can make agriculture impossible.
• Agricultural Disruption: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can reduce crop yields, leading to food insecurity and loss of livelihoods.
• Water Scarcity: Increased incidence of drought and alteration of water supply reduce available drinking and irrigation water.

Impacts

The movement of climate migrants can have various impacts on both the areas they leave and the areas to which they move, including:

• Economic Strain: New populations can put a strain on resources and infrastructure in receiving areas.
• Social Tension: The influx of new groups can lead to conflict with local populations, particularly when resources are scarce.
• Loss of Cultural Identity: Migrants often lose their cultural ties and traditional ways of life when they move.
• Health Issues: Overcrowding and poor living conditions in new areas can lead to health problems.

Legal and Policy Framework

Currently, there is no universal legal recognition for climate migrants, which complicates efforts to address their needs. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other international bodies are working towards policies that could better manage climate migration.

Future Challenges

As climate change continues, the number of climate migrants is expected to rise, posing challenges for international stability, resource management, and humanitarian assistance.

See also

• Environmental degradation
• Global warming
• Human migration