Prioritization of Climate Change in Displaced Communities: Evidence from Somalia

• In Event: Climate, Conflict and Crime: New Research on the Climate-Conflict Nexus

Abstract

The media, governments, and international organizations often talk about the impending effects of climate change on forced displacement in the Global South. Some have pushed Global North countries to take responsibility for these negative impacts given their disproportionate contribution to climate change historically. For individuals in the Global South to mobilize effectively and promote collective action, however, requires that those most effected by climate change know what it is, tie it to the causes of their displacement, and prioritize fighting climate change. Yet, we know exceptionally little about what displaced people think about climate change and its consequences, causes, and potential remedies. We argue that providing climate-induced displaced communities with the appropriate information to associate climate change with their displacement increases climate prioritization and demands for action. We test our expectations with a survey and field experiment on displaced populations in Kismayo, Somalia. Our research sheds light on the relationship between displacement, violence, and climate change in vulnerable communities. Against a backdrop of violence, insecurity, and unprecedented climate shocks, the project seeks to extend conversation on how government and non-government organizations can increase the awareness and prioritization of climate change for displaced populations.

Author

• Blair Welsh, New York University - Abu Dhabi