Navigating climate change: migration challenges in Southeast Asia

Abstract

Purpose – This article addresses some of the most pressing issues related to climate change and its potential consequences, namely population migration in Southeast Asia. It sheds light on how slow-onset events interact with other variables to limit the ability of people to adapt to stressors through human mobility. Design/methodology/approach – The study adopts an analytical methodology to evaluate the extent to which the planning policy framework addresses these issues within the context of achieving resilient development. Findings – Climate stressors will force millions of people to move within their own countries, while others will be forced to cross international borders, leaving others stranded. Desertification, sea level rise, ocean acidification, air pollution, changing rainfall patterns and biodiversity loss are all examples of slow-onset processes that the author believes will be exacerbated by climate change. Research limitations/implications – This will exacerbate many existing humanitarian issues, and more people may be forced to flee their homes as a result. This research helps improve the understanding of migration’s social, economic and environmental implications. Originality/value – The research offers a novel perspective and analysis of the unique migration challenges arising from climate change in the Southeast Asian context.

Keywords

• Southeast Asia
• Climate change
• Migration
• Population displacement
• Planning policy
• IPCC