Pakistan International School

Model United Nation

Special Political and Decolonization (SPECPOL)

Climate-Induced Displacement and Migration

Syed Burhan Saqib (Chair)

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 Table of Contents

Table of Contents.......................................................................................................................................2

Background of SPECPOL........................................................................................................................3

Climate-Induced Displacement and Migration.......................................................................................4

Background..........................................................................................................................................4

Timeline................................................................................................................................................5

Current situation..................................................................................................................................8

Main stakeholders................................................................................................................................9

Main problem.....................................................................................................................................11

Possible solutions:..............................................................................................................................12

Guiding Questions..............................................................................................................................14

Sources................................................................................................................................................16

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 Background of SPECPOL

The Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) is one of the six main
committees of the United Nations General Assembly. It is formally known as the Fourth
Committee and holds a crucial role in addressing a wide array of issues related to decolonization,
peacekeeping, human rights, and a range of other global political concerns.

Mandate and Scope:

SPECPOL's mandate encompasses various significant global challenges, including but not
limited to:

1. Decolonization: One of its primary focuses is on advancing the decolonization process,

promoting self-determination, and ensuring the rights and welfare of non-self-governing
territories.

2. Peacekeeping Operations: SPECPOL plays an active role in discussing and proposing

measures related to peacekeeping operations. It evaluates and recommends strategies for
improving the effectiveness and efficiency of UN peacekeeping missions.

3. Special Political Issues: The committee also deliberates on an assortment of special

political issues, including those related to regional conflicts, diplomacy, and political
transitions in specific regions or countries.

Recent Developments:

The 76th Session of the UN General Assembly's Fourth Committee has witnessed significant
discussions and resolutions concerning peacekeeping operations and other pertinent global
issues. The committee actively participated in proposing new measures and seeking the General
Assembly's endorsement for various initiatives.

One of the crucial areas of focus during this session was the endorsement of new proposals and
recommendations, particularly in the realm of peacekeeping operations. This emphasizes the

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commitment of SPECPOL in enhancing and adapting peacekeeping strategies to the evolving
global scenarios.

Climate-Induced Displacement and Migration

Background

Overview of the Issue

The phenomenon of climate-induced displacement and migration has emerged as a critical global
concern, reflecting the complex interaction between environmental factors and human
movement. As elucidated by various scholarly contributions, this issue arises from the impacts of
climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, changing precipitation
patterns, and the resultant environmental degradation. The sources provided offer multifaceted
insights into the historical, sociopolitical, and legal aspects of this intricate issue.

Historical Context and Key Contributors

The historical backdrop of climate-induced displacement encompasses a series of events,

including but not limited to natural disasters, prolonged droughts, floods, and sea-level rise.
These events have led to the displacement of millions worldwide, notably documented in regions
like Bangladesh, small island developing states in the Pacific and Caribbean, and various other
vulnerable areas.

Research by Hossain, Ryakitimbo, and Sohel (2020) highlights the specific case of Bangladesh,
emphasizing the 2017 flood in Char, Gaibandha district, as a pivotal example of climate-induced
human displacement. Furthermore, the study by Thomas and Benjamin (2018) focuses on
policies and mechanisms devised to address climate-induced migration in small island
developing states in the Pacific and Caribbean, shedding light on the challenges and potential
solutions in these regions.

Key Factors Influencing Climate-Induced Displacement

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Contributions from scholars such as Butros, Gyberg, and Kaijser (2021) emphasize the
contrasting perspectives on solidarity and security, as witnessed in UN and EU policies regarding
climate-induced migration. The multifaceted nature of this issue is further expounded upon by
Burzyński, Deuster, Docquier, and De Mélo (2019), who highlight the intricate relationship
between climate change, inequality, and human migration.

Legal Status of Climate Refugees

Legal dimensions and classifications of climate refugees and their protection mechanisms have
been extensively discussed in the academic sphere. Praveen (2022) conducts a comprehensive
legal analysis of climate refugees, aiming to understand the legal implications and complexities
surrounding climate-induced migration and displacement.

The Role of International Law

The discourse on international law and its challenges in addressing climate-induced displacement
is a crucial aspect. Ramos (2013) delves into the contemporary challenges to international law
posed by climate change, disasters, and migration.

Comprehensive View of Climate-Induced Displacement

The issue of climate-induced displacement is multidimensional, involving ecological,

demographic, genetic, legal, and policy-related facets. It intertwines environmental, societal, and
political factors, making it a complex and pressing issue on the global stage.

This extensive examination of climate-induced displacement and migration will serve as a

fundamental foundation for understanding the challenges, intricacies, and significance of
addressing this issue within the SPECPOL committee.

Timeline

1. 1970s-1980s:

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  Early discussions and studies: Initial scientific conversations and sporadic
research on the potential impacts of climate change and environmental
degradation on human displacement, focusing on issues like desertification,
deforestation, and resource depletion.

2. 1990s:

 Emergence of environmental migration studies: More comprehensive studies and

academic papers examining the link between environmental changes and human
migration patterns, highlighting concerns about growing environmental risks.

3. 2005:

 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): Recognizes the

potential for climate change to induce migration in vulnerable regions. However,
specific policies addressing climate-induced displacement are not developed.

4. 2007:

 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Report: The IPCC's Fourth

Assessment Report acknowledges the potential for climate change to induce
population movements due to extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and other
environmental changes.

5. 2009:

 Pioneering case studies: Reports and studies focusing on specific cases of

climate-induced migration and displacement gain prominence, drawing attention
to vulnerable areas and populations affected by environmental changes.

6. 2012:

 "Climate Migrants" in Focus: Scholars and policymakers intensify discussions

about the concept of "climate migrants" or "environmental refugees," raising

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 concerns about the absence of legal frameworks to protect and support these
populations.

7. 2015:

 Paris Agreement: Signed by 196 parties, this landmark climate accord

acknowledges the need to address the impacts of climate change, indirectly
acknowledging the potential for climate-induced displacement. However, specific
provisions regarding climate migrants are absent.

8. 2017:

 Migration Crisis and Natural Disasters: Heightened attention due to significant

natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires causing large-scale
displacement, particularly in regions highly susceptible to climate change effects.

9. 2020:

 Research and Policy Integration: Increased integration of climate-induced

migration within policy discussions and research initiatives, emphasizing the
urgency to develop legal frameworks and support mechanisms for climate
migrants.

10. 2023:

 UN Global Compact on Refugees and Migrants: The United Nations convenes to

discuss a global compact on refugees and migrants, aiming to address the
challenges faced by climate-induced migrants within the broader context of
human mobility.

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 Current situation

Climate-induced displacement and migration have become increasingly pertinent due to the
escalation of climate change impacts, notably extreme weather events, rising sea levels,
prolonged droughts, and other environmental changes. This phenomenon affects various regions
globally, leading to complex socio-economic and legal challenges.

Recent Developments and Ongoing Challenges:

1. Increased Displacement: Recent years have witnessed a surge in climate-induced

displacement due to escalating natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires.
For instance, events like the 2017 floods in Bangladesh (Hossain et al., 2020) and the
intensification of cyclones in small island states (Thomas & Benjamin, 2018) have
resulted in significant human displacement.

2. Legal Recognition and Definitions: Efforts towards recognizing "climate refugees" or

displaced individuals due to environmental factors continue to evolve. Researchers like
Praveen (2022) and Jolly & Trivedi (2020) discuss the need for legal frameworks
specifically addressing these challenges.

3. Policy and International Frameworks: The debate surrounding policy responses at

both national and international levels has been ongoing. The role of the UN, EU policies,
and international law (Ramos, 2013; Butros et al., 2021) in handling climate-induced
migration has been a subject of extensive discourse, particularly regarding the balance
between security and humanitarian approaches.

4. Vulnerability and Impact on Communities: Vulnerable populations, including small

island communities and low-lying coastal areas, face severe threats. This exacerbates
existing social, economic, and health challenges, posing critical questions on support
mechanisms and resource allocation (Boateng, 2014).

5. Interdisciplinary Approach: Studies like Burzyński et al. (2019) and Qin (2011)
highlight the need for interdisciplinary approaches to comprehend and address the

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 multidimensional nature of climate-induced displacement. The intersection of
environmental, social, and legal aspects necessitates a holistic understanding.

6. Communication and Awareness: Environmental communication and raising awareness

(Butros et al., 2021) play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, policy formulation, and
creating a platform for solidarity and cooperation.

Main stakeholders

The involved stakeholders encompass a wide array of entities, including countries, international
organizations, research bodies, and specific affected groups. Drawing insights from the sources
you provided, here is an identification and description of key parties impacted by the issue:

1. Countries:

 Bangladesh: With a high vulnerability to climate change, Bangladesh has

experienced substantial climate-induced displacement due to events like floods.

 Small Island Developing States (SIDS): Nations like those in the Pacific and the
Caribbean are significantly affected by rising sea levels and extreme weather
events, leading to migration challenges.

 Various European and Western Nations: These countries receive migrants and
refugees due to climate-induced displacement, impacting their immigration and
humanitarian policies.

2. International Organizations:

 United Nations (UN): The UN addresses climate-induced migration through

various agencies such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and
the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

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  European Union (EU): The EU formulates policies and discussions regarding
climate-induced migration, balancing security concerns with solidarity.

3. Research Bodies and Academia:

 Authors and Researchers: Scholars like Burzyński, Piguet, Knowles, and others
have contributed to understanding the complexities of climate-induced migration
through their research and publications.

 Legal and Policy Analysis Journals: Publications such as the Journal of Law
and Emerging Technologies and Brill Open Law focus on legal frameworks and
policy analysis related to climate refugees and migration.

4. Specific Groups Impacted:

 Climate Refugees: Individuals or communities displaced by climate change-

induced events like floods, rising sea levels, or droughts.

 Local Communities in Disaster-prone Areas: Populations living in areas

vulnerable to climate-related disasters, who face the risk of displacement and loss
of livelihoods.

5. Specific Professional Bodies:

 Surveyors: Professionals, as highlighted by Boateng, may play a role in assessing

and mitigating the effects of climate change on displacement through their work.

6. Hybrid Law Advocates: As discussed by Jolly and Trivedi, there are advocates
exploring the integration of various legal frameworks to address the complexities of
climate-induced displacement.

These stakeholders contribute to the discourse, policymaking, and mitigation strategies regarding
climate-induced displacement and migration. The complexity of the issue necessitates a multi-
faceted approach involving legal, humanitarian, environmental, and geopolitical considerations.

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 Main problem

This issue presents a complex set of challenges that necessitate immediate attention and
robust solutions. Based on the compiled research and various scholarly perspectives, the primary
challenges associated with this issue can be categorized into several key areas:

1. Legal Status and Definition of Climate Refugees: The absence of a universally

accepted legal definition of "climate refugees" remains a critical challenge. Praveen
(2022) and Jolly & Trivedi (2020) emphasize the necessity for a comprehensive legal
framework specifically addressing climate-induced displacement. Existing international
refugee laws, such as the 1951 Refugee Convention, do not encompass individuals
displaced solely due to environmental factors. This gap in legal protection leaves climate
migrants in a precarious situation, without designated status or access to adequate rights
and resources.

2. Lack of Clear Policy Framework: Thomas & Benjamin (2018) and Boateng (2014)
point out the inadequacy of coherent and effective policies addressing climate-induced
displacement. The absence of standardized, systematic policies hampers the provision of
essential aid and support mechanisms for affected populations. Addressing this issue
requires a comprehensive framework at national and international levels that
encompasses the identification, protection, and rehabilitation of climate migrants.

3. Socio-Economic Inequalities and Vulnerabilities: Burzyński et al. (2019) and Piguet et

al. (2011) highlight the disproportionate impact of climate-induced migration on
vulnerable populations, particularly those living in poor regions. These communities
often face heightened exposure to environmental risks and have limited resources to cope
with or adapt to climate-induced displacement. The lack of adequate support mechanisms
further exacerbates their vulnerabilities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and
marginalization.

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 4. Inadequate Support Mechanisms: Hossain et al. (2020) and Butros et al. (2021)
underscore the insufficiency of support mechanisms to address the immediate and long-
term needs of climate migrants. Access to essential services such as healthcare,
education, livelihood opportunities, and resettlement support is often insufficient.
Additionally, there is a lack of effective coordination between local, national, and
international agencies in aiding the displaced populations.

5. Geopolitical and National Security Implications: Ramos (2013) and Qin (2011)
discuss the geopolitical implications of climate-induced migration. The influx of
displaced populations across borders raises challenges related to national security,
resource allocation, and social tensions, potentially leading to conflict and instability.

Addressing these primary challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving legal, policy,
socioeconomic, and humanitarian interventions to ensure the protection and well-being of
climate migrants and the communities receiving them.

Possible solutions:

When considering potential approaches and solutions, there are a variety of strategies that
the committee could deliberate upon.

1. Legal Recognition of Climate Refugees

Strategy:
Legally recognizing individuals displaced due to climate change as "climate
refugees" could be a vital step. Establishing a legal framework defining and protecting
the rights of climate refugees might involve creating new international agreements or
expanding existing refugee conventions to encompass climate-induced displacement.
Action Plan:
The committee could propose drafting or amending international laws that
explicitly acknowledge the status of climate refugees, ensuring their protection and
access to fundamental rights and assistance.
2. Support Mechanisms and Resettlement Programs

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 Strategy:
Implementing support mechanisms and creating resettlement programs
specifically designed for climate-displaced populations can offer a structured approach.
This involves developing strategies to aid in relocation, providing resources, and
ensuring the integration of affected populations into host communities.
Action Plan:
The committee could suggest the creation of international funds or mechanisms to
support and facilitate the resettlement of climate-displaced populations, working in
collaboration with affected nations and international agencies.
3. Hybrid Legal Approaches and Policy Formulation
Strategy:
Developing hybrid legal frameworks that integrate different legal approaches to
address climate-induced displacement can be advantageous. This strategy involves
blending international, regional, and national laws, policies, and mechanisms to offer a
comprehensive and effective response to the issue.
Action Plan:
The committee might propose the exploration and potential adoption of hybrid
legal frameworks, encouraging collaboration among legal experts, policymakers, and
affected countries to create a coherent approach for handling climate-induced
displacement.
4. Balancing Solidarity and Security in Policymaking
Strategy:
Finding a balance between humanitarian assistance and security concerns is
crucial in policymaking regarding climate-induced migration. It involves recognizing the
needs of displaced populations while addressing potential security implications.
Action Plan:
The committee could recommend policy guidelines that prioritize humanitarian
aid for climate-displaced individuals while addressing security challenges, ensuring that
response measures consider both aspects without neglecting either.
5. Collaborative International Efforts and Information Sharing
Strategy:

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 Enhancing collaboration among nations, sharing information, and expertise on
climate-induced displacement can significantly improve responses. This strategy involves
fostering a collective approach, sharing knowledge, and resources to better address the
challenges.
Action Plan:
The committee could propose the establishment of international platforms or
databases for information sharing, encouraging collaborative research initiatives, and the
exchange of best practices among nations dealing with climate-induced migration.

By considering and combining these strategies, the committee can devise comprehensive and
practical approaches to mitigate the challenges associated with climate-induced displacement
and migration, addressing the legal status of climate refugees, and establishing support
mechanisms.

Guiding Questions

1. Legal Status of Climate Refugees:

 What specific legal definitions should be established for climate refugees?

 How can existing international legal frameworks be adapted or extended to

accommodate the status and rights of climate-induced migrants?

 What are the critical gaps in international law concerning climate-induced

displacement and migration?

2. Support Mechanisms for Displaced Populations:

 What measures can be implemented to provide immediate and long-term support

for climate-induced migrants?

 How can international cooperation and resource allocation be improved to aid

regions affected by climate-induced migration?

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  What financial mechanisms or funds could be established to assist communities
dealing with climate-induced migration?

3. Challenges Associated with Climate-Induced Displacement:

 What are the socio-economic challenges faced by communities affected by

climate-induced displacement and migration?

 How can the international community address the health, education, and
livelihood challenges of climate-induced migrants?

 What are the best practices or strategies for integrating climate-induced migrants
into new communities while respecting their cultural diversity?

4. Policy and Mechanism Development:

 How can nations collaborate to develop a comprehensive, uniform policy

framework to manage climate-induced migration?

 What mechanisms or early warning systems can be established to foresee and

manage potential climate-induced displacement?

 How can technology and innovation be leveraged to assist in both monitoring and
managing climate-induced migration?

5. Understanding the Scale and Scope of Climate-Induced Displacement:

 What are the current estimates and projections for climate-induced displacement
on a global scale?

 What are the key environmental, social, and economic indicators that signal
potential migration due to climate change?

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  How can data collection and research efforts be improved to better understand
and address the challenges associated with climate-induced displacement?

Sources

United Nations. (n.d.). UN General Assembly - Fourth Committee - Special Political and Decolonization.
https://www.un.org/en/ga/fourth/

United Nations. (n.d.-c). UN General Assembly, Fourth Committee, Bureau of the 76th Session.
https://www.un.org/en/ga/fourth/76/bureau76.shtml

Approving text on peacekeeping operations, Fourth Committee calls for General Assembly’s endorsement of new proposals,
recommendations | UN Press. (2021, May 14). https://press.un.org/en/2021/gaspd726.doc.htm

Burzyński, M., Deuster, C., Docquier, F., & De Mélo, J. (2019). Climate change, inequality, and human migration. Social Science
Research Network. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3457667

Knowles, L. L., & Alvarado‐Serrano, D. F. (2010). Exploring the population genetic consequences of the colonization process
with spatio‐temporally explicit models: insights from coupled ecological, demographic and genetic models in montane
grasshoppers. Molecular Ecology, 19(17), 3727–3745. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-294x.2010.04702.x

Piguet, E., Pécoud, A., & Guchteneire, P.D. (2011). Migration and Climate Change.

Thomas, A., & Benjamin, L. (2018). Policies and mechanisms to address climate-induced migration and displacement in Pacific
and Caribbean small island developing states. International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management,
10(1), 86–104. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijccsm-03-2017-0055

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Hossain, B., Ryakitimbo, C. M., & Sohel, M. S. (2020). Climate change induced human displacement in Bangladesh: A case
study of flood in 2017 in Char in Gaibandha district. Asian Research Journal of Arts & Social Sciences, 47–60.
https://doi.org/10.9734/arjass/2020/v10i130140

Jolly, S., & Trivedi, A. (2020). Implementing the SDG-13 through the Adoption of Hybrid Law: Addressing Climate-Induced
Displacement. Brill Open Law, 2(1), 69–100. https://doi.org/10.1163/23527072-20191016

Praveen, N. (2022). Climate Refugees: A Comprehensive and Legal Analysis to Understanding Climate Change-Induced
Migration and Displacement. Journal of Law and Emerging Technologies, 2(2), 24–50.
https://doi.org/10.54873/jolets.v2i2.110

Ramos, É. P. (2013). Climate Change, Disasters and Migration: Current Challenges to International law. In Nomos eBooks (pp.
739–760). https://doi.org/10.5771/9783845242774_739

Qin, H. (2011). Collectif Argos: Climate refugees. Human Ecology, 39(5), 699–700. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10745-011-9418-7

Boateng, I. (2014). Climate change and the role of surveyors.

Butros, D., Gyberg, V. B., & Kaijser, A. (2021b). Solidarity versus security: Exploring perspectives on climate induced migration
in UN and EU policy. Environmental Communication, 15(6), 842–856. https://doi.org/10.1080/17524032.2021.1920446

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