Climate Displacement: A Crisis in South Asia

Since 2018, environmental catastrophes have caused about three times as many displaced individuals as violence and armed conflict. Climate displacement will become a more pressing worldwide issue as disasters become more severe and frequent as a result of climate change.

The worst floods in modern Pakistani history occurred in August 2022 as a result of strong monsoon rains, destroying villages and uprooting 33 million people. Bangladesh is also susceptible to severe and persistent flooding. An estimated 7.2 million people are said to have been affected by Bangladesh's record-breaking floods. Climate displaced persons are exposed to a wide range of flood-related risks and hazards, including from damaged buildings and drowning in floodwaters, and are at increased risk of waterborne diseases and malnutrition. They are also living in the open with their families without access to drinking water, food, or a means of support.

Join a discussion with three experts to understand the cause of these climate disasters with a focus on South Asia, dealing with aftermath and directing efforts towards sustainable development in light of climate change. 

Panelists:
Erum Haider, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Environmental Studies, College of Wooster
Eric Shahzar, PhD Candidate in climate change and environmental degradation, Karachi University in Pakistan
Lisa Thalheimer, Climate scientist and Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Center for Policy Research on Energy and the Environment, Princeton University

This event is co-hosted by the Energy and Environment Concentration, Human Rights and Humanitarian Policy Concentration and Economic and Political Development Concentration at SIPA.