ABSTRACT
The human consequences of climate change include the erosion of the rights of those affected. Climate displacement will be one of the many ways in which affected populations will adapt to their changed environment, and human mobility may reach an unprecedented order of magnitude, raising significant challenges. In order to be able to fully assess the impact and legal implications of climate change, it is crucial to identify potential displacement scenarios and to assess the character of the displacement as well as the needs for protection and assistance of those concerned. While climate-induced internally displaced people (IDPs) are in general better protected than cross-border refugees, there are practical, legal and normative gaps that still need to be addressed, notably as regards the definition of forced displacement. Climate-related human rights concerns are manifold, as its consequences may impact the rights to life, health, education, access to safe drinking water and an adequate standard of living, including housing.
