Dynamics of Climate Change Induced Migration: Scenario from Coastal Regions of Bangladesh

M Manjurul Islam

Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Specialist, Climate Change and DRR Programme, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, Bangladesh.

Ashish Barua

Programme Manager, Climate Change and DRR Programme, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, Bangladesh.

Moumita Sen

Junior Programme Officer, Climate Change and DRR Programme, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation, Bangladesh.

Abstract

Climate change-induced migration is a frequent occurrence in climate-vulnerable areas, and Bangladesh, as one of the most vulnerable countries, is no exception. Migratory patterns are prevalent in coastal areas of Bangladesh because of climate change's consequences on slow-onset and fast-hitting catastrophes. Khulna and Bagerhat are two of Bangladesh's most climate-vulnerable districts, and climate-induced migration is a critical adaptation strategy in the region. The purpose of this study was to identify and understand the existing dynamics that have happened due to climate change-induced migration. Quantitative and qualitative techniques have been used to gather data in a credible and reliable approach. Household questionnaire survey and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) techniques were used for data collection in the study sites. In the studied areas, seasonal and out-migration are extremely frequent. Climate-related calamities have caused forced migration in the Morrelganj, Paikgacha, and Koyra Upazila of Khulna and Bagerhat districts. Conferring to the study, approximately 60% of families in the studied areas move from one location to another to pursue work and a better life. Therefore, it is necessary to establish links between the places of origin of migration (climate-affected coastal villages) and the destinations of migration (cities and communities) to provide safer mobility and risk management in the situation of forced migration due to climate change. Considering the number of job and employment options in the hosting locations, it could be possible to provide skills development training, semi-skill employment, and entrepreneurship, and capacity-building skills to help people earn more and live a better quality of life.

Keywords: Climate Change, Migration, Coastal Region, Bangladesh, Mobility, Dynamics