A New Framework for U.S. Leadership on Climate Migration: Addressing the Challenges and Opportunities

Climate migration is a pressing issue that is poised to become one of the biggest human development and security challenges in the coming decades. The impacts of climate change on human mobility are becoming increasingly evident, with rising sea levels, extreme weather events, droughts, and wildfires all contributing to global migration patterns. Despite the growing evidence of climate change’s impact on human mobility, there is still a lack of consensus on how to define and address climate migrants.

Temporary displacement due to extreme weather events is a significant driver of forced migration globally. Storms, floods, wildfires, and droughts displace millions of people each year, with climate change exacerbating the frequency and severity of these events. Tropical cyclones, inland flooding, droughts, and wildfires are all examples of climate-related disasters that can lead to temporary displacement. The increasing frequency of these events due to climate change poses a significant challenge for affected communities.

Permanent displacement is another consequence of climate change, particularly in the case of sea level rise, human heat thresholds, and agricultural tipping points. Rising sea levels, extreme heat, and declining agricultural productivity can force people to permanently leave their homes. Small island nations, coastal communities, and regions vulnerable to extreme heat are particularly at risk of permanent displacement due to climate change.

Indirect displacement, where climate change indirectly contributes to conflict and instability, is also a growing concern. Climate change can exacerbate resource scarcity, leading to conflict over water, land, and other resources. Fragile states are particularly vulnerable to climate-related hazards, as they often lack the capacity to respond to environmental degradation and displacement. The link between climate change and conflict highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing climate migration.

Existing frameworks for addressing forced migration do not adequately address the unique challenges posed by climate migration. The lack of consensus on terminology, legal status, and protection for climate migrants hinders efforts to provide support and assistance to those affected. The United States, as a global leader, has the opportunity to take action on climate migration by reducing emissions, investing in resilience, accommodating climate migrants, and leading efforts to strengthen international frameworks.

A new framework for U.S. leadership on climate migration should focus on reducing emissions, investing in resilience, accommodating climate migrants through new immigration programs, and leading efforts to strengthen international frameworks. By taking proactive steps to address climate migration, the United States can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on human mobility and support those affected by environmental disasters.