The links between climate change and migration: a review of South Asian experiences

Migration, or human movement from one place to another, is nothing new. Numerous studies have found that, due to climate change and various extreme weather events, relocation to other places is increasing, and experts often say that these events will have a significant impact on human migration in the future, especially in South Asia. This article comprehensively reviews the literature on climate change and migration in South Asian countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) published between 2000–2023. Based on this review we create a typology that we call “Multilayered or Integrated Climate-Induced Migration” (MICIM) and explain the link between climate change and migration in South Asian countries through three possible pathways. First, temporary migration is seen as a livelihood-diversification strategy, with reliance on temporary migration increasing during extreme weather occurrences or other times of environmental change. Second, when agricultural productivity drops due to climate change or other weather occurrences, people often move to new areas as a means of protecting themselves from food/water insecurity. Finally, we found that in South Asian countries, extreme climatic events such as floods, cyclones, etc., resulted in forced relocation. Importantly, we also found that existing social inequality plays a significant role in migration decisions in South Asian countries. Accordingly, migration is not an equally viable option for all groups, even if they face climate vulnerabilities. Further research, as well as adaptation plans, are required for these “trapped populations”. We identified some gaps in the existing literature and suggest that further investigation, using a more intersectional lens, should be undertaken in order to more comprehensively, context-specifically and comparatively, explore the relationships between climate change and migration. Furthermore, there is a need to generate improved employment opportunities and livelihood options in South Asian nations, particularly in times of natural calamities such as floods, droughts, cyclones, and similar occurrences, especially for those who are unable to migrate to other places due to lack of resources.