The Front Lines of Climate Change
- Apr 20, 2018
- 2 min read
The front line no longer refers only to conflict, climate change is now forcing people to react to sustain themselves and it is not just our job but our duty to help. Global warming has produced costs to the environment which could never have been predicted and which are now felt in every aspect of life. What was once a problem confined to one area is now spread and diversified and impacts upon all. This multi-faceted challenge to humanity does however affect some areas more than others. One such area is the Pacific islands, where some are facing the very real consequences of rising sea levels and the threat that within a short number of years their homes very well may be permanently unlivable.
Under current laws no country is required to help because these people who will be displaced are not displaced due to a fear of persecution, but rather due to the effects of climate change which has ultimately spanned from the actions of those in the developed globalised world. People from the islands of Kiribati and Tuvalu are being forced to relocate to other Pacific Islands. Fiji, has set an example of progression by investing thousands into the development of a legal framework to assist in the relocation of climate migrants. Sea levels could rise by 1-3 foot by the turn of the century and thus it has become evident that these investments are indeed a matter of necessity.Without tackling climate change this is only the beginning. If we reach a rise in temperature of 4-5 degrees globally the effects could be even greater, millions to billions may be forced to relocate and further creating conflict.
In Tuvalu over 20% of the population has already been forced to leave the island and relocate to larger islands due to the imminent danger being placed upon them, but yet their fear does not amount to a sufficient level to be provided with refugee status elsewhere. Support for acceptance of migrants displaced by the climate is however on the rise, The World Bank and other such organisations have called for Australia and New Zealand to open their borders in order to accommodate those affected. At the time of research 17 people from the Pacific had applied for refugee status in New Zealand, 13 of which were refused and the remainder are still pending.
This is just one example and unfortunately this is not isolated. These people are not at fault, nor are they able to act without action from the larger community. The aim is that the world, and those around who are able to have a voice, speak. That those who can make a difference, do. Finally, and this is paramount, that we establish provisions and means of assistance that ensures that people are provided for and not forced to live where they cannot sustain life, whether that be internally or requiring relocation outside of their country borders.
The Pacific Islands provides a uniquely interesting example of what many other areas could experience in the future. This is real, and this is now and we must take action.
Further information is linked below.
Commenti