How Climate Change Impacts Refugees and Displaced Communities
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Today we’re going to be sharing some information from USA for UNHCR about how climate change directly impacts the refugee community, and what we as citizens can do to help.
Climate change is affecting all of us in various ways, and seems to be only getting worse. However, the effects it has on refugees and displaced communities around the world is even more concerning. Climate change increases the risk of extreme weather like storms and floods and heatwaves, which can leave communities already in need of basic necessities (food, water, shelter, etc.) completely devastated.
Per USA for UNHCR’s website, they say, “Competition over depleted natural resources can spark conflict between communities or compound pre-existing vulnerabilities. Climate change does not itself lead to conflict, but it can magnify the impact of other factors that can spark conflict.
Imagine having no other option besides literally fighting for your life and the lives of your family. This is a reality for millions of people around the world.
Right now, climate changing is forcing some 23 million people from their homes every year, and without immediate action, by 2050, around 200 million people will be in need of humanitarian assistance due to the effects of climate change.
How can we help?
You can click here to sign USA for UNHCR’s new petition to “demand governments urgently promote measures to combat climate change and prevent the increase in forced displacement and the growing vulnerabilities of those already forced to flee.”
You can also click here to donate anything you can to help refugees combating climate change, as well as all those who are forcibly displaced.
Educate yourselves and others. Click here to learn more about the climate crisis and please share whatever you can. Simply talking about it and raising awareness has power, too.
Thank you so much.
(Photo via Amel Dirar/USA for UNHCR)
