Climate change can contribute to increased migration through sudden-onset events such as extreme weather events, which can destroy homes and infrastructure, and slow-onset changes such as sea-level rise and droughts, which can lead to deteriorating living conditions and reduced access to resources, forcing people to migrate in search of better conditions.
Climate change has the potential to exacerbate several factors that compel people to migrate. Sudden-onset events, such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, can have devastating impacts on communities, destroying homes, infrastructure, and disrupting livelihoods. In the aftermath of these events, people may be forced to leave their homes temporarily or permanently in search of safety, shelter, and basic necessities.
Additionally, slow-onset changes, such as rising sea levels and prolonged droughts, can have long-term implications for living conditions. Sea-level rise can lead to increased coastal erosion, flooding, and salinization of freshwater sources, making habitable areas uninhabitable over time. Droughts can result in water scarcity, crop failure, and livestock death, leading to food insecurity and economic hardships.
These deteriorating living conditions and reduced access to resources often leave vulnerable communities with no choice but to migrate. The process of migration itself can be challenging, especially for those who lack resources or face legal barriers. Climate change can further restrict access to resources, exacerbating existing social and economic inequalities, and increasing the likelihood of conflicts and tensions over scarce resources.
While it is important to recognize that climate change is not the sole driver of migration, it can act as a "threat multiplier" by intensifying existing socio-economic challenges. Therefore, addressing the impacts of climate change and implementing adaptation and resilience measures are crucial to mitigate forced migration and ensure the well-being and protection of affected communities.