In a climate context, displacement is the forced movement of people within their own country or across international borders because of persecution, conflict, or climate disasters. Displaced people include refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs), and people who migrate out of necessity. Displacement often occurs in countries who have experienced war or unstable governance.

People all around the world are affected by displacement, with most people displaced inside their own country (internally displaced). Many are displaced to neighboring regions and countries, while others are forced to travel further afield. Children account for 41% of all forcibly displaced people. Up to 76% of people who are displaced are hosted in less wealthy countries, which can put a strain on host communities and resources. 

Displacement is projected to increase as more frequent and severe climate hazards arise under climatic change. People who are already displaced are at risk of secondary displacement, as they are often forced to move to poor and hazard-prone areas of cities and countries.

Rising numbers of isolationist and populist-leaning governments in countries around the world pose a further risk. They may seek to prevent people from seeking asylum, militarizing their borders and outsourcing assistance and legal asylum procedures to other (poorer) countries.

Investments in climate adaptation and resilient healthcare can help prepare people for climate hazards, making it easier for them to stay where they are. ‘Open door’ policies grant displaced people rights to live and work in host countries after displacement.

The player with the lowest Social Resilience must move (up to) 3 Communities in Crisis to the player on their left.

• Figures at a glance (UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR) 

• Climate change and disaster displacement (UNHCR)

• Climate Refugees 

• Get involved in local refugee resettlement programmes by volunteering with refugees where you live.

• Identify organizations working with displaced people and see if your workplace could fundraise for them.

• Advocate for inclusive policies for immigrants and refugees, and for your government to provide more support to people displaced around the world.