More people are living in areas that are highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Some communities are unable to relocate to safer areas, leaving them trapped in dangerous conditions, a situation known as involuntary immobility. Unfortunately, current climate policies and disaster planning often do not adequately address the risks these populations face.
While policies and plans should be based on data, the lack of data should not prevent governments and organizations from taking action. Integrating involuntary immobility into broader efforts for climate action and safe, well-managed migration could significantly reduce the risks for affected communities.
"To effectively address climate risks, it is essential to integrate the concept of involuntary immobility into climate and disaster risk policies," says Lisa Thalheimer, lead author of the article and UNU-EHS expert on human mobility in the context of climate change. “By understanding and tackling the root causes of immobility, we can develop more inclusive solutions that safeguard the most vulnerable populations.”
The full article is available here.
