| Project Detail |
The Eastern and Horn of Africa region hosts over 19 million forcibly displaced people (4.5 million refugees and 14.5 million internally displaced persons). Displacement in the region is exacerbated by ongoing developmental challenges, such as a growing youthful population, which is accompanied by increased demands for natural resources and socio-economic goods and services. In addition, the region has been experiencing the impact of climate-change-induced displacement, due to prolonged droughts, cyclones, floods and landslides, which have impacted the food security situation in many countries.
Climate change is further accentuating other forms of displacement caused by conflict, political instability and violence. Displaced populations face additional vulnerabilities such as loss of livelihoods, amplified exposure to physical violence (including gender-based violence), discrimination, ethnic profiling, political targeting and human rights abuses. However, most of the responses to the impact of climate change and forced displacement remain fragmented.
This project will examine the impact of climate-change-induced displacement in East Africa, with a focus on vulnerable populations in drought-affected and flood-affected areas. The aims are to influence rights-centred responses by communities, governments and regional economic communities/regional mechanisms and to encourage the use of research evidence in mediating climate-induced displacement.
Research results will also be used to advocate for anticipatory planning towards evacuation and relocation of those displaced by impacts of extreme weather. The policy engagement will be undertaken at local, sub-national, national and regional levels. Production of publications and other knowledge products will inform training, advocacy and outreach programs that seek to engage with local, national and regional policymakers, as well as community leaders and civil society organizations. |
