The rising relationship between climate change and human displacement demands solutions that prioritize community involvement over one-size-fits-all approaches. This viewpoint was articulated by Professor Kamal Amakrane, managing director of the Global Centre for Climate Mobility, during a recent event in Germany that examined the links between climate, peace, and security.
Prof. Amakrane highlighted that while political decisions are often made in institutional settings, it is marginalized communities that primarily bear the brunt of climate change. He stated, “The politics is in the rooms, but the difference is always on the ground,” emphasizing the disconnect between decision-makers and those affected.
Over the past several years, Prof. Amakrane has focused on the interconnections between climate events and human migration, a topic that is becoming increasingly urgent for populations worldwide. He illustrated the varied impacts of climate change, from melting ice in Norway impacting Indigenous communities to rising sea levels in Jakarta displacing residents. Additionally, Pacific Island nations like Fiji are witnessing similar challenges, as coastal populations are forced to relocate due to climate threats.
He underscored that the climate crisis is a universal challenge, remarking, “We’re all impacted by the climate crisis.” Drawing from his peacekeeping background, he likened climate negotiations to conflict mediation, where bridging differences is vital. Nonetheless, he noted that addressing climate change poses distinct challenges, given that its repercussions are relentless and beyond negotiation.
Calling for necessary adaptations to an ever-evolving climate, he acknowledged that fully halting climate change may no longer be a feasible goal, prompting communities to question their adaptability to this new reality. Prof. Amakrane asserted that adaptation efforts cannot rely on a single global strategy. While many international organizations pursue broad solutions for human rights and development, the adaptation to climate conditions must be specifically tailored to local needs.
He provided an example of how climate challenges in Niger differ fundamentally from those in coastal areas reliant on fishing, indicating that communities may have to transform their lifestyles significantly. “It’s like asking somebody who has been working with computers tomorrow to work on the field,” he explained.
Prof. Amakrane reinforced the idea that effective adaptation must be a gradual process shaped by the communities themselves. He stated, “It’s a community exercise,” emphasizing the critical role of robust community connections in building resilience against climate impacts while maintaining social solidarity. The intricate relationship between individuals and their communities is often overlooked in broader policy discussions, yet it is key to effectively addressing the intensifying threat of climate change.
This perspective not only highlights the importance of local engagement in the face of global challenges but also fosters hope that communities can adapt and thrive despite the severe environmental changes ahead.