Climate refugees

Abstract

This chapter examines the impact of climate change on forced displacement and migration as well as the impact of these processes on women and girls. Recent studies indicate that the majority of the population displaced as a result of climate change is concentrated in the low-income, densely-populated countries of the world. Direct impacts of climate change leading to displacement include famines and droughts, sea level rise, floods, and food insecurity. Some of these impacts will result in conflicts (e.g. Syria). The displacement of vulnerable populations from familiar surroundings has far-reaching impacts including limited access to employment opportunities, schools, and healthcare facilities. These impacts are greater on women and girls in most of the Global South due to their lower status as demonstrated in previous chapters.