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GCM Side Event: Addressing natural disasters, adverse effects of climate change and environmental degradation – solutions for human mobility and human security

Dec 09, 2018
Event

Read the Draft Concept Note

The final text of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) recognizes disasters linked to natural hazards, the adverse effects of climate change and environmental degradation as drivers that may compel people to leave their countries of origin. With the GCM, the States commit to develop disaster risk reduction, climate change mitigation and adaptation and resilience mechanisms to address the vulnerabilities of persons at risk and affected by such hazards and drivers. The GCM also includes a commitment to implement actions to protect human rights and find solutions for people compelled to move in such contexts.

This side event will bring together States and international organizations to present policy instruments and effective practices in promoting environmental, disaster risk reduction, adaptation and resilience mechanisms so people are not compelled to seek livelihoods and housing elsewhere, and effective practices to ensure that migration is safe, orderly and regular when people have to move or decide to move.  

The impacts of climate change on human security are seen in countries across the globe. For instance, changes in rainfall patterns fueled by climate change affect the livelihoods of farmers and pastoralists in Sudan, and risk worsening existing tensions around land and water access. In Somalia, severe drought has impacted deforestation, access to traditional energy sources, and the stability of the country and the region. In Nepal, climate change is contributing to extreme weather events such as floods, which combined with underlying vulnerabilities contributes to internal and external migration. However, cooperation on preservation of shared or common natural resources and environmental challenges can build resilience and trust among communities. 

Together, the organizers of this side event are translating their collective experience and insights on migration, climate, environment, human rights and human security risks into operational engagement and action on building resilience and improving relevant policies and management practices. 

Panel discussion with:

  • Mr. Md. Shahidul Haque, Foreign Secretary of the Government of Bangladesh
  • His Excellency Ambassador Samuelu Laloniu, Permanent Representative of Tuvalu to the United Nations 
  • Mr. António Vitorino, Director General of the International Organization for Migration 
  • Mr. Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees 
  • Ms. Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
  • Ms. Yemisrach Kebede, Resident Representative of the African Union Liaison Office, Norwegian Refugee Council 
  • Mr. Gary Lewis, Director, Policy and Programme Division, UN Environment

Facilitation by Her Excellency Ambassador Nazhat Shameem Khan, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Fiji to the United Nations Office in Geneva

While in Marrakesh visit the art installation: New Futures and Possibilities: Art and Disaster Displacement during Migration Week by Displacement: Uncertain Journeys and the Platform on Disaster Displacement 

© PDD 2018