Background

Environmental Displacement of People

Asia and the Pacific will be amongst the global regions most affected by the impacts of climate change. Countries of the region are particularly vulnerable because of a high degree of exposure to environmental risks and large population. In recent years, Asia and the Pacific has undergone massive and rapid socioeconomic transformation.

Migration within countries, especially from rural to urban areas, has become significant. Countries and populations of Asia and the Pacific will be affected by climate change in different ways, leading to various migration scenarios. Cross-border migration is likely to increase. Already, the region is home to the most important source of international migrants worldwide.

In 2010, more than 30 million people in Asia and the Pacific were displaced by environmental disasters, such as storms and floods. Many returned home, but others did not. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of extreme weather events, and over time induce significant sea-level rise. At the same time, the region’s population, now around 4 billion, continues to increase. These developments will result in growing numbers of people on the move for reasons that include environmental factors.

ADB Project and Conference

In September 2010, ADB launched a technical assistance project to develop policy recommendations to address climate-induced migration in Asia and the Pacific. Funding options are also receiving attention. This unique project aims to stimulate thinking and action by concerned stakeholders and decision-makers on the local, national and regional levels.

On 15-16 September 2011, ADB will organize a regional conference to present its initial policy recommendations for addressing migration associated with environmental changes.

Objective

The regional conference will raise awareness about the environment as a driver of migration, the opportunities to use migration as a tool of adaptation to climate change, and the need for governments and international agencies to act now to reduce human vulnerability and risk.

Target Participants

The conference will assemble leading experts and decision makers from different disciplines. Representatives of governments, inter-governmental organizations, NGOs, the private sector, and academe will also join the program.

About 80 persons are expected to attend the conference.

Participation is by invitation only.