Climate Migration

Rising sea levels and extreme weather are forcing growing numbers of people to leave their homes. Some move temporarily after a disaster, while others relocate permanently. Low-lying coastal communities are among the most vulnerable. Prolonged droughts can also destroy farmland and push rural families towards cities. Unlike refugees fleeing conflict, climate migrants have little legal protection under international law. This gap has prompted calls for new agreements between countries. Cities receiving large numbers of newcomers must also expand housing and public services. Investing in adaptation may reduce the need for people to move in the first place. Either way, climate migration is likely to become one of the defining issues of this century.