Bearing Witness to a Growing Crisis

Braschler and Fischer began their project, “The Human Face of Climate Change,” in 2009, shortly after witnessing the impact of rapid industrialization in China. Returning to Switzerland, they found a surprising level of skepticism surrounding the severity of the climate threat. “In 2009, you still had people who denied climate change,” Braschler explained. Driven by a desire to humanize the issue, the pair partnered with the Global Humanitarian Forum in Geneva, receiving support from Kofi Annan, to embark on a photographic journey to the front lines of climate change.

Initially, the focus was on documenting the immediate aftermath of extreme weather. However, as the years passed, the photographers observed a shift – a growing pattern of long-term displacement. Rising sea levels, desertification, and increasingly frequent and intense storms were not simply causing temporary hardship; they were rendering entire communities uninhabitable. The project evolved to reflect this reality, focusing on the lives of families, farmers, and fishers forced to abandon their ancestral lands and livelihoods.

The photographers’ work highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations. Those with the fewest resources are often the most exposed to environmental hazards and the least able to adapt. This creates a cycle of displacement and poverty, exacerbating existing inequalities.

Sixteen years after the project’s inception, the debate surrounding climate change has largely subsided, replaced by urgent discussions about mitigation and adaptation. Braschler and Fischer’s work now serves as a crucial reminder of the human dimension of the crisis. “This is going to be one of the central issues for humanity,” Braschler asserts, “and we want to make sure that people know that the major effect of climate change will be displacement.”

What responsibilities do developed nations have to assist communities displaced by climate change, given their historical contribution to greenhouse gas emissions? And how can we ensure that climate adaptation strategies prioritize the needs and rights of those most vulnerable to displacement?

The work of Braschler and Fischer underscores the urgent need for comprehensive climate action, not only to reduce emissions but also to address the inevitable consequences of a changing climate. This includes investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, developing early warning systems, and providing support for communities facing displacement. Furthermore, international cooperation is essential to ensure that climate refugees are treated with dignity and respect, and that their rights are protected.

Beyond governmental and organizational efforts, individual actions also play a crucial role. Reducing our carbon footprint, advocating for sustainable policies, and raising awareness about the human cost of climate change are all vital steps towards creating a more just and sustainable future.

Learn more about the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations at The UNHCR – Climate Change and explore resources for supporting climate refugees through Climate Haven.

Frequently Asked Questions About Climate Displacement

1. What is climate displacement?

   Climate displacement refers to the forced movement of people due to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and desertification. It can involve both internal migration within a country and cross-border movement.

2. How many people are currently displaced due to climate change?

   Estimates vary, but millions of people are already displaced due to climate-related factors. The Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) reports significant numbers of internal displacements each year linked to weather disasters. The actual number is likely much higher, as it doesn’t include those who cross international borders.

3. What regions are most vulnerable to climate displacement?

   Low-lying coastal areas, small island developing states, and regions prone to drought and desertification are particularly vulnerable. These include parts of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

4. Is there legal protection for climate refugees?

   Currently, there is no internationally recognized legal definition of “climate refugee,” and therefore no specific legal framework to protect their rights. This is a growing area of debate and advocacy.

5. What can be done to prevent climate displacement?

   Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is the most crucial step. Additionally, investing in climate adaptation measures, such as building resilient infrastructure and developing early warning systems, can help communities cope with the impacts of climate change and reduce the risk of displacement.

6. How does climate change exacerbate existing inequalities?

   Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations who have contributed the least to the problem. These communities often lack the resources to adapt to changing conditions, making them more susceptible to displacement and hardship.