Climate refugees: Supporting receiving communities webinar

A February 2022 report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change found that: “Over the next 30 years, 143 million people are likely to be uprooted by rising seas, drought, searing temperatures and other climate catastrophes.” Where is everyone going?

Many people are displaced within their own countries. For example, the World Bank anticipates that Bangladesh will have at least 19 million people internally displaced because of climate-related disasters by 2050. Others must flee their home nation, essentially becoming refugees. Despite its common usage, “climate refugees” are not a recognized class of people and are not protected under international refugee laws.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy hosted a webinar to provide funders with information about the issue of climate migration, focusing on the new communities and countries that climate-displaced individuals find themselves in through planning or circumstance. Panelists examined the term “climate refugees,” discussed how receiving communities can support and prepare for climate-and disaster-displaced populations, and shared examples of existing responses.

CDP Manager of Learning and Partnerships Austin Snowbarger moderated the discussion and panelists included:
- Jono Anzalone, The Climate Initiative
- Abu Sadat Moniruzzaman Khan, BRAC
- Sarah Jamesen, USA for IOM

This webinar was co-sponsored by Council on Foundations, Giving Compass, The Funders Network, Philanthropy California, United Philanthropy Forum, Philanthropy New York, Alliance Magazine, Philanthropy Southeast and Charity Navigator.