3.1 Climate Migration

Climate migration happens when people move, either temporarily or permanently, because of changes in the environment. These changes include extreme weather events, rising sea levels, desertification, and resource shortages.

Understanding Climate Migration

Migration can be internal (within a country) or cross-border (between countries). Sometimes it happens suddenly, after disasters like floods or hurricanes; for example, Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in 2005. Other times it’s a slow process, caused by long-term issues like droughts or rising seas, such as the migration out of Guatemala in 2019.

Some communities, especially those with fewer financial resourcesThe inputs used to produce goods and services, including the factors of production., are unable to migrate and become trapped, while others are drawn towards cities in search of better opportunities, public servicesIntangible products that provide a skill, experience, or benefit rather than a physical item., and perceived safety; this often leads to a competition for resources and the potential for subsequent conflict.