As the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) convenes, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) stresses the need for unified global climate strategies to protect communities most impacted by climate change. IOM Director General Amy Pope highlights the urgency of supporting climate resilience for those wanting to remain in their homes.
“We must come up with better ways to help people and communities become more resilient to climate change’s impacts, to ensure that people who are especially vulnerable have the chance to adapt and thrive,” said Pope.
Global examples reveal how climate pressures force migration. In the Horn of Africa, droughts and floods disrupt pastoralist livelihoods, pushing them to migrate in search of resources. Bangladesh’s rising sea levels drive coastal families to cities, while Central American droughts devastate farms, compelling moves for survival.
Pope points out that climate migration affects millions today and stresses solutions for those who need to move – and those who want to stay.
At COP29, IOM aims to elevate migrant voices, with a Climate Change and Human Mobility pavilion to showcase migrant resilience stories and youth-led climate solutions.
Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
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