117.3 Million Displaced: The Urgent Call to Tackle Climate Change and Conflict Together

Conflict remains the leading cause of displacement globally, with the United Nations estimating that 117.3 million people were displaced by the end of 2023. This staggering number highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the intertwined issues of climate change, conflict, and migration. As climate change continues to exacerbate resource competition and social disparities, the situation is expected to worsen, particularly in vulnerable regions like the Middle East and North Africa. Recent data indicates that extreme weather events have displaced millions, with droughts and floods being significant contributors to this crisis. In Iraq alone, nearly 140,000 people have been displaced due to recurring droughts, while Yemen faces a dual crisis of conflict and climate-induced displacement affecting over 4.5 million people. The Aswan Forum and COP discussions emphasize the need for integrated strategies that combine climate action with peacebuilding efforts. Without a proactive approach, the consequences of these complex conflicts will only deepen, making recovery and development increasingly challenging. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, global cooperation and investment in resilience-building are essential to transform migration from a necessity into a choice.