When home becomes uninhabitable: Planned relocations as a global challenge in the era of climate change

Nadine Knapp

No 1/2026, SWP Research Papers from Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP), German Institute for International and Security Affairs

Abstract: With climate change advancing, the planned relocation of entire communities from risk areas is becoming unavoidable. It is already a reality worldwide and will become increasingly necessary in the future as a measure of climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction. Relocation can save lives and reduce the risk of displacement. Nevertheless, this measure is considered a "last resort" because it is expensive, deeply affects livelihoods, social networks and cultural identities, and carries new risks. To be effective, it must be participatory, human rights-based, and accompanied by development-oriented measures that strengthen the well-being and resilience of those affected and reduce structural inequalities. Many places lack the political will, concrete strategies and resources for this - especially in low-income countries with already limited adaptation capacities. These countries are therefore heavily dependent on international support, which has mostly been fragmented, ad hoc and uncoordinated. The longer the absence of adequate structures persists, the greater the risk that human security will be severely compromised, fundamental human rights violated and entire communities (once again) displaced - posing risks to regional stability and global security. The German government should specifically address gaps in the international system, facilitate access to knowledge and resources, and strengthen multi-sectoral learning. Germany's current engagement in Fiji should be expanded in the medium term to other climate-vulnerable regions and countries, with a focus on community-driven relocation projects.

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:zbw:swprps:335878

DOI: 10.18449/2026RP01

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