Beyond the immediate and apparent causes, climate change presents a looming threat that is often overlooked. Climate change exacerbates existing conditions for refugees and is predicted to create millions more displaced individuals. Over the coming decades, climate change is expected to alter weather patterns, intensify storms, and raise sea levels. Each of these phenomena will directly and indirectly increase refugee populations.

Rising sea levels, for example, threaten to submerge coastal towns, displacing millions of individuals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates that sea levels may rise significantly by the end of this century. Additionally, more severe heatwaves and storms will render many locations uninhabitable. Regions most vulnerable to these impacts include Bangladesh and other low-lying areas. This would impose additional burdens on neighboring countries such as India and Turkey, necessitating the establishment of frameworks and guidelines to manage the worsening refugee crisis.

Indirect Economic and Social Implications

Indirectly, changing weather patterns will negatively affect agricultural yields, leading to increased food scarcity and heightened economic volatility as trade routes are disrupted. Economic hardship prompts external migration toward better opportunities and creates conditions ripe for power struggles. These struggles often lead to increased conflict, prompting further migrations.