The UN’s migration agency IOM has called for migration to be included among suite of solutions to climate change.

Speaking at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29), the International Organisation for Migration Director Amy Pope called for more concrete and sustainable solutions for the communities most affected by the impact of climate change.  

“We must come up with better ways to help people and communities become more resilient to climate change’s impacts, to ensure that people who are especially vulnerable have the chance to adapt and thrive,” Ms Pope said.

“Climate migration is not just a concern of the future; it is the present reality for millions globally. Last year alone, disasters caused more than 26 million internal displacements.

“Climate adaptation and resilience measures are needed for people who want to remain in their home, ensuring their livelihoods can sustain and recover from the impacts of climate change. 

Ms Pope said that in the Horn of Africa, for instance, recurrent droughts and flash floods have pushed entire communities, especially pastoralists and smallholder farmers, to relocate in search of water and grazing land.

In Bangladesh, rising sea levels and frequent cyclones have led to the displacement of coastal populations, forcing families to migrate to urban areas in search of stability.

Meanwhile, parts of Central America have experienced severe droughts that have decimated agricultural livelihoods, compelling thousands to move in search of work and resources.

“These examples demonstrate that climate migration is a pressing issue today, affecting diverse populations across continents,” Ms Pope said.  

“Around the world, climate change is influencing how and why people move.  It prompts some to move for job opportunities as its impacts change livelihoods. In extreme cases, communities dealing with extreme impact of climate change and are no longer possible to adapt are compelled to relocate to safer areas.

“It is important that there are solutions in place that protect and support those who want to stay, those on the move and those needing or wanting to move. 

“Migration should also be integrated in climate solutions, and plans should include consulting with migrants.   

“Their innovative ideas and diverse perspectives contribute to building a sustainable economy that is fair and inclusive for all,” she said. 

Ms Pope said IOM was committed to amplify underrepresented voices.

She said COP29 attendees had the opportunity to hear stories of resilience from climate migrants, learn about youth led solutions on climate migration from twenty-four youth delegates, and engage in discussions with experts on the impacts of climate change on human mobility at the IOM Climate Change and Human Mobility pavilion.

Read more here: Migration as an Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change | IOM Blog