Article

Climate forecasts often project inevitable displacement for the inhabitants of Pacific Island States, but scenario planning shows that migration futures are not fixed and uncertainty need not be a barrier to action.

Early examples of planned relocation in Odisha saved lives but left livelihoods fragile, increased onward migration and curtailed access to common resources, underscoring the need for inclusive, livelihood-centred climate mobility policies.

People displaced by climate-related disasters are not passive recipients of aid or policy decisions. They are taking strategic legal action to secure their rights and hold States accountable in domestic, regional and international forums.

A complex interplay of aspirations, capabilities and constraints determines whether people stay or move in response to climate hazards. Understanding how these factors interact can help inform more nuanced interventions.

Disaster-prone communities are being given financial support ahead of predicted cyclones through anticipatory financing mechanisms. Broadening mitigation options has significantly influenced how households approach evacuation and livelihood protection.

Forcibly displaced people are highly exposed to climate-related hazards. Increasing their access to early warning systems, early and anticipatory action and climate-adaptive programming are necessary for effective adaptation.

Communities repeatedly displaced by floods in Nigeria are not passive victims. They are relocating, supporting each other and innovating to adapt, efforts that deserve recognition and better support amid intensifying climate impacts.