UN: Civil society action to win recognition of climate refugees
Civil society is working on is to win recognition of the rights of people displaced by climate change. There is no international law that relates specifically to the concept of ‘climate refugee’, but civil society efforts are trying to change this on the basis that drivers of migration are increasingly intertwined, as has been the case in the context of refugee flows and internal displacement resulting from conflict and persecution.
We settled on the term ‘climate refugees’ to provoke conversation. To emphasise the political responsibility of climate change. To raise awareness of its ability to impact on, one might even say persecute, some people more than others. To contribute, provoke and challenge policy. To highlight the needs by giving voice to those affected and to help seek their legal protection. Ultimately, to present this as an issue of equality.
Amali Tower
