The United Nations has reported that climate-related disasters and conflicts have displaced millions globally ahead of its annual climate change conference. According to the UN’s High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), disasters related to weather caused approximately 250 million people to flee their homes over the last decade. This information was shared in a report released on the eve of the 30th annual UN Climate Change Conference (COP 30) in Brazil.
The report, titled “No Escape II: The Way Forward,” highlights that weather-related disasters have resulted in around 67,000 internal displacements daily. Additionally, the document indicates that climate change exacerbates challenges faced by individuals who have already been displaced due to conflict or other reasons. It noted that people in fragile and conflict-affected regions are particularly affected by this compounding crisis.
Specific disasters mentioned in the report include floods in South Sudan and Brazil, extreme heat in Kenya and Pakistan, and water shortages in Chad and Ethiopia. The report projects that by 2040, the number of countries experiencing significant climate hazards will increase from three to 65, which will host over 45% of the current conflict-displaced populations.
The UNHCR urges reflection on dwindling global commitment to address climate change, especially in light of funding cuts that limit the agency’s ability to support affected refugees. Notably, the U.S. has decreased its foreign aid contributions, which historically accounted for a significant portion of the UNHCR’s budget.
The upcoming conference in Belem, Brazil, will gather around 50,000 participants from more than 190 countries to discuss strategies for mitigating climate change impacts. One challenge on the agenda is the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which has drawn criticism from major trading partners and raises concerns among developing nations about equitable climate action efforts.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/11/10/un-warns-of-millions-displaced-by-climate-change-as-cop30-opens-in-brazil?traffic_source=rss