Climate & Environment

The Subcommittee on Climate and the Environment of the NGO Committee on Migration is dedicated to advocating for the rights and dignity of all persons affected by climate- and environment-related migration and displacement, both within countries and across borders. Recognizing the complex and interlinked nature of climate-induced mobility, our advocacy is guided by an urgent call for action and a commitment to a human rights-based approach that upholds the principles of justice, equity, and inclusion.

Climate change and environmental degradation are increasingly recognized as significant drivers of migration and displacement, often intersecting with economic, social, and political factors in shaping migration decisions. Climate-related displacement manifests in various ways—through sudden-onset disasters, slow-onset environmental changes, or repeated events from which people are unable to recover. Regardless of the form it takes, the fundamental rights of affected individuals must be safeguarded at all times and throughout all stages of mobility. These rights extend to cross-border migrants, internal migrants, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), new migrants, and those who have already migrated, as well as those who seek to remain in their homes.

The subcommittee advocates for comprehensive mitigation and adaptation measures, as well as measures that address both economic and non-economic loss and damage. We advocate for policies that reduce the adverse drivers of forced migration while ensuring protection and resilience-building for communities at risk. In alignment with Objective 2 of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), we emphasize the necessity of addressing the structural factors that compel people to migrate while also advocating for the right to stay and adapt in place for those who do not wish to leave their homes.

Our work also highlights the need to respect and protect the rights of those remaining—whether voluntarily or involuntarily—in impacted communities. These individuals, often left behind as household or family members migrate, frequently face heightened vulnerabilities that demand targeted support and protection measures. Policy responses and international frameworks must recognize and address the diverse needs of all persons affected by climate-related mobility, ensuring access to options, including adaptation in place as well as support for internal migration and regular pathways for international migration, protection mechanisms, and sustainable solutions.

The Subcommittee on Climate and the Environment remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing strategic advocacy within the UN system, engaging with Permanent Missions, UN agencies, and civil society partners to uphold the rights, agency, and dignity of all individuals navigating climate-related displacement and mobility.

 

Links to learn more and connect with organizations with a focus on this topic:

Organizations:

  • Climate, Migration & Displacement Platform (CMDP): A global platform that brings together civil society, activists, and academics with missions at the intersection of climate change and human mobility, including migration, displacement, and planned relocation
  • Coalition on Dignified Climate Relocation (CDCR): A coalition of frontline community leaders, civil society advocates, researchers, and members of international organizations who are committed to protecting the rights, autonomy, and dignity of people undergoing planned relocation facing the climate crisis
  • Platform on Disaster Displacement (PDD): A state-led initiative working with partners towards better protection for people at risk of or being displaced in the context of disasters and climate change

Organizations with a focus area on climate and environmental displacement:

Resources: