The EU has held the Presidency of the intergovernmental Platform on Disaster Displacement since July and until December 2023 - “an opportunity to raise the issue of disaster and climate-related displacement and migration higher on the international agenda, to mobilise coordinated global efforts in this area, and explore systemic solutions for the future of the Platform”, says the European Commission.
In a working document on ‘Addressing displacement and migration related to disasters, climate change and environmental degradation’ released on 27 July by European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič, the Commission calls for enhanced coordinated EU action and additional actions to protect the populations concerned.
It suggests first and foremost addressing the longer-term development challenges posed by displacement and migration through prevention, resilience and the management and creation of durable solutions for displaced communities.
According to the Commission, this will require linking humanitarian action, development cooperation and environmental policy, as part of the integrated approach to Humanitarian Aid/Development/Peace which is a priority of the Czech Presidency of the EU Council (see EUROPE 12993/15).
The following are among the courses of action listed: - Include the challenges of migration and displacement related to disasters, climate change and environmental degradation in the EU’s dialogues and cooperation with partner countries; - Intensify research and explore the possibilities of forecasting or modelling displacement risks; - Explore new opportunities to strengthen support for disaster preparedness and early action, including through forecast-based funding and insurance schemes; - Promote good governance and increase efforts to involve local communities in partner countries, especially women and young people.
See the working document: https://aeur.eu/f/2r2 (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)